When Sam joined the Employ-Ability Program she had no road map for where she wanted to go. Sam, who has Asperger Syndrome (new window) and experiences anxiety and depression, had very clear ideas, but wasn’t sure how to get there.

Sam was candid with Employ-Ability staff and participants about how her disability impacts her life. For example, Sam struggled with confidence when speaking with others in a formal setting. While practicing employment interviews, Sam worked with the Employ-Ability Facilitator to develop strategies to help her maintain eye contact.

The Wellness for Work topic on stress management proved to be beneficial, and Sam found the relaxation techniques helpful. Furthermore, her career research affirmed what she wanted to do. Sam’s long term goal is to be a Professor of Archaeology (new window). Though Sam has no background in archaeology, it has been an interest of hers since she was a child.

During her time in the Employ-Ability Program, Sam was able to break her goal down into small manageable steps. She completed her GED (new window) in December of 2014 and contacted a Professor of the anthropology department, about Archaeology program prerequisites.

In March of 2015, she applied to the University of New Brunswick (new window) as a mature student in the Bachelor of Arts (new window) program and pending acceptance will be attending in September 2015. Sam tells us that she learned how to build on her strengths and has developed confidence in her choices as a result of attending Employ-Ability.

Best of luck to you, Sam!