IVAN

AGE: 17
POSITION: Brand Associate
EMPLOYER: Old Navy

Ivan is a teenager from the southwest side of Chicago whose interests include music (he's a guitarist and has played in a mariachi group) and accounting (he's currently taking a course for dual credit at his high school). After seeing a Youth Job Center social media post about job openings at his local Old Navy, he reached out to YJC and quickly became a client.

Ivan’s biggest obstacle upon joining YJC’s T.W.O. program was nerves before and during job interviews. "I didn't expect the questions,” he shares. “I would just try to answer quickly—get it over with.”

By taking advantage of YJC's services, Ivan equipped himself with knowledge and skills that have helped him in interviews and beyond. "YJC has helped me be more confident when doing interviews and honestly just talking with coworkers or customers. ... I've been able to communicate with my teachers more. ... I'm able to have a regular conversation with them and if I need help, I can get my message through to them clearly."

Ivan's courage and tenacity paid off: he's currently working as an Old Navy Brand Associate, something he's interested in sticking with. "I'd like to get to know better how everything works,” he says, adding that he hopes to learn about the accounting side of things. His goals for the future include graduating from high school, going to college, and getting a degree in teaching, accounting, or law.

With Ivan's proactiveness, work ethic, and ability to grow, we know he has a bright future ahead of him and look forward to supporting him as it unfolds.

Congratulations on all your success, Ivan! You’ve got a bright future ahead of you.