Jessica is leaping into 2023 full of confidence

When Jessica finished high school, she didn’t want to get a job or think about her future. It was too nerve-wracking, and she didn’t feel confident meeting new people or doing new things.

Now, three years later, thanks to Northcott’s support, Jessica feels ready to tackle any opportunity that comes her way.

“I’m proud of myself. I’m doing a Certificate III in Hospitality; I have a job; and I have my L’s,” she says.

The beginning

Jessica first started coming to Northcott Oak Flats one day a week during her senior years at school. Then, after she graduated from year 12, Jess began accessing our training and employment program for school leavers.

“I was nervous at the start and shy. But then I got so much confidence and wasn’t scared.

“Northcott helped me with my resume and building my confidence. They helped me think about what I could do in my future,” she says.

Jack, Northcott’s Service Coordinator, says his team supported Jessica to overcome uncertainty about working in hospitality.

“I was scared. I was worried about serving people and having to talk to people. But now I’m confident…and I’ve got a job at a bar!” Jessica says.

Finding a job

After completing work experience at Hotel Illawarra last year, Jessica felt ready to take the next step.

“I really enjoyed it, so I just started looking for a job. I put my resume into the Albion Park Hotel.”

Before she had a chance to tell Jack her plans, Jessica had an interview with the hotel’s manager and was offered a job.

“She went away for a week and came back to us with a job!” laughs Jack. The training and support provided by Northcott over several years around social skills, building confidence and handling interviews had paid off.

Jessica has been working at the Albion Park Hotel for five months, taking on one shift week.

“I pour drinks and collect glasses. And I work the till,” she says. “The staff have been so good at supporting me to learn. They are nice people.”

Northcott has been the best thing I have chosen over the years. I have really enjoyed it. I’ve made new friends. They have been my family to me and Northcott has been my family as well.

Jessica

This year, Jessica is aiming to take on more shifts at the pub, as well as complete a Certificate III in Hospitality and work towards getting her provisional driver licence.

“I’ve changed so much since coming to Northcott. I’m more confident. Northcott has helped so much with everything. I feel pretty good about my future now.

Work and Study Northcott Oak Flats