Building Confidence, Building Careers: OFS Celebrates CareerPoint Healthcare Graduates
- jweyers3
- Apr 2
- 4 min read
Operation Fresh Start celebrated the graduation of its CareerPoint Healthcare cohort in the Promenade Lounge at the Overture Center on March 27. The program, designed to equip young adults with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to launch their careers in healthcare, has been transformative for the five graduates. Through hands-on training, employer partnerships, and personal development, these young adults are now prepared to take the next steps toward a successful future.
A Program Designed for Growth
Over the past six weeks, five dedicated young adults—Shakira, Jainae, Natalie, Manizha, and Jose—have worked diligently to develop their skills and career prospects under the guidance of CareerPoint Coordinator Nicole Knox. They have engaged in a wide array of professional development activities, from networking with healthcare employers to participating in resume workshops and mock interviews.
The CareerPoint program is about more than just job placement—it’s about holistic growth. Participants have attended presentations on job readiness, earned their CPR certifications, and conducted multiple rounds of mock interviews with employer partners such as UnityPoint, UW Health, and representatives from the county. These experiences have not only prepared them for real-world job opportunities but have also helped them build self-confidence and refine their career aspirations.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Confidence
For many participants, the most valuable lessons from CareerPoint have been about personal growth. Shakira, who once struggled with public speaking, now feels comfortable and confident in professional settings.
“I used to get so nervous speaking in front of people,” Shakira admitted. “But now, I feel much more comfortable. I’ve learned that public speaking happens every day, even in one-on-one conversations.”
Jainae shared a similar sentiment, explaining how the program helped her overcome self-doubt and build confidence in interviews.
“I used to doubt myself a lot,” she said. “Now, I use my resume and cover letter as a guide, and I feel much more prepared.”
Through multiple rounds of mock interviews—sometimes up to five or six—they have become more comfortable presenting themselves to employers and answering difficult questions.
Lisa Blazek, Manager of Care Center Operations at American Family Insurance Customer Services, spoke highly of the graduates.
“This is my first experience working with Operation Fresh Start and you guys won my heart,” Lisa said at the graduation. “I gave a presentation to this group on public speaking and being more confident, and I chose to use storytelling as a method to make them feel comfortable.”
She added that it was impressive seeing how much they improved their public speaking in just a few weeks.
“You all told a story today,” Lisa said. “You all publicly spoke in front of people. I can say that today was a very touching moment for me, and I wish you guys the best of luck.”
Achieving Milestones and Securing Opportunities
With graduation marking the next step in their journeys, the CareerPoint participants are already seeing the rewards of their hard work. All graduates have secured interviews and apprenticeship opportunities, setting themselves up for long-term success.
“We’ve applied to places like UnityPoint, UW Health, and SSM Healthcare,” Jainae shared. “Some of us have already lined up interviews for CNA and medical assistant apprenticeships.”
One of the most exciting successes came for Shakira, who was invited to interview into a highly competitive medical assistant training program through Meriter—an opportunity that was open for less than 24 hours.
“I appreciate everything I've learned in this program to give me a better chance and a better opportunity in life,” Shakira said.
Shakira first came to Operation Fresh Start in 2021 where she earned her high school diploma through the Legacy program.
“This is my second time around at Operation Fresh Start, and every time I come, I get a better opportunity as a young adult,” she said.
As for Nicole, this is her first time running the healthcare cohort.
“I feel so proud of them,” Nicole said. “They’ve been taking initiative, following up with employers, and making connections that will serve them well in their careers.”
A Team That Feels Like Family
Beyond professional development, one of the most remarkable aspects of this program has been the bonds formed among participants.
“At first, we were all just individuals,” Jainae said. “But over time, we became a team. We help each other out with applications and emails, and we support each other through the whole process.”
Their camaraderie extends beyond the classroom. Whether it was helping a shy classmate come out of her shell, learning new words with a teammate whose first language isn’t English, or even discovering unexpected personal connections—like one participant realizing that another’s mother was the neighborhood ice cream truck driver—the group has developed strong friendships.
“They even surprised me with lunch one day,” Nicole said, smiling. “They remembered from an earlier conversation that I liked chicken strips and apple juice. It was such a thoughtful gesture.”
Looking Toward the Future
As these graduates step into their next chapter, one thing is certain: their futures are bright.
“This program gave us a foot in the door,” Shakira said. “Now, it’s up to us to walk through it.”
Operation Fresh Start’s CareerPoint Healthcare program has not only helped these young adults find opportunities—it has also given them the tools, confidence, and support system they need to thrive. As they prepare for new careers and challenges ahead, they do so with the skills and self-assurance that will carry them toward success.