Changing Careers After 20 Years!
After 20 plus years working as an administrator at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Crystaline “Crys” Charity was ready to advance her career. She received her bachelor’s degree in English and Writing from UIC and after graduation was hired as a full-time staff member. Although she enjoyed her career at UIC, Crys wanted to pursue a career that more closely aligned with her degree.
After leaving UIC, Crys began researching positions that centered on writing and editing. As a freelance writer, she was successful in working on several writing projects, but was out of full-time work for around 18 months. With a desire to get back to a full-time career, Crys reached out to National Able Network for job search assistance. Crys enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and
Crystaline “Crys” Charity
Opportunity Act and began working with Career Coach, Shawn McKenzie.
While working with Shawn, Crys attended National Able Network’s training program JUMPSTART where she learned how to craft a resume for today’s job market, as well as how to incorporate new job search methods like using LinkedIn to network and find careers.
In addition to providing her with new job search tools, Crys credits National Able Network with helping her “think outside of the box” and become more assertive. “There are multiple ways to manage issues and solve problems. Look at traditional things untraditionally,” said Crys. She applied these newly gained skills and worked closely with Shawn to find career opportunities. “Shawn is fantastic in a lot of different ways – very patient and full of ideas.” said Crys.
Through her hard work and commitment to her search, Crys recently accepted a position in higher education! In her new position, Crys communicates with students who have questions and concerns regarding a variety of matters – from their financial aid to their education records. When asked about her new role, Crys said, “The people are wonderful. This is a jumping off point, and they are aware of that. It’s encouraging, I never really got that holistically in other positions. I have room to grow.”
Congratulations, Crys!
If you’re interested in changing your career, National Able Network can help! Click here or call 855-994-8300 today!
