The Greater Houston Opportunity Youth Collaborative (GHOYC) connects young people with training and mentorship they need to launch careers in health care. So far, GHOYC has supported 1,440 Houston-area young adults in securing positions at nearly 20 health care providers.
Jennifer Finds Purpose at a Career Fair
Jennifer Espinoza is one of many young adults who grew from high school graduate to confident health care professional with GHOYC’s support.
In her senior year of high school, Jennifer excelled academically but was unsure about her future. Burned out from academic pressure, she sought a career with stability and purpose. A week after graduation, GHOYC connected her with one of its nonprofit partners that helped her explore career options, build her resume, and prepare for interviews.
It was during a career fair organized by one of GHOYC’s partners where she discovered her passion for health care. “The only station that interested me was the medical station,” Jennifer shares. “They told me about programs where I could get a nurse assistant certificate without going to college.”
At the fair, Jennifer was interviewed by Memorial Hermann, Houston’s largest non-profit health system. Despite not yet having her Certified Nursing Assistant certification, her potential was evident, and Memorial Hermann offered her a position. Through a GHOYC partner, Jennifer enrolled in a six-week CNA course and passed her exam, securing the position.
A Swift Transition to Patient Care
Just five months after high school graduation, Jennifer started as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) at Memorial Hermann. She quickly adapted to the fast-paced and emotionally demanding environment. “You need a strong mind and a big heart,” she explains.
Jennifer finds deep fulfillment in her role, saying, “It gives me a sense of purpose. When I leave work, the nurses always thank me. I feel like I’m making a difference.”
Exploring Future Opportunities
As Jennifer continues to grow in her career, she remains open to exploring different avenues within health care. “This job gives me a chance to explore my options,” she says. While she’s currently focused on her role as a PCT, Jennifer is considering further education and exploring other health care careers, such as becoming a lab technician or working in telemonitoring. “When I do decide to go back to college, I’ll have a better idea of what I want to study,” she adds.
Jennifer’s journey exemplifies how GHOYC empowers young people to build their skills, secure meaningful employment, and gain financial stability, all while making a positive impact on others’ lives.