The Power of Service: My Journey with AmeriCorps and Becoming a Career Navigator
"As the sun set on my college years, I stood on the brink of a new chapter, armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Communication from the University of Arizona. Like many graduates, I was eager to translate my academic knowledge into real-world impact. Little did I know, my path would lead me to AmeriCorps, where I would embark on a journey of service, growth, and professional fulfillment.
In May 2021, fresh out of university, I made the decision to join AmeriCorps, driven by a desire to gain hands-on experience and contribute meaningfully to my community. AmeriCorps offered me the chance to serve as a Program Services Specialist at the Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona’s Career Centers—a role that would shape my career trajectory in ways I could never have imagined.
My tenure with AmeriCorps was nothing short of transformative. From the outset, I immersed myself in the mission, shadowing Career Specialists to understand the diverse needs of our clientele and the array of services offered. It wasn't long before I found myself making significant technical contributions to the team, with my greatest challenge and achievement revolving around mastering Google Data Studio.
With determination and perseverance, I created a dynamic dashboard for the Client Satisfaction Survey, revolutionizing how we interpreted and utilized crucial data. The impact of this tool was tangible—it enhanced our ability to tailor services to meet the evolving needs of our clients, and the dashboard remains an integral part of our operations to this day.
In February 2022, the culmination of my dedication and hard work came to fruition when I was offered a position as a Career Navigator I, transitioning seamlessly from AmeriCorps service to a full-time role within the organization. As a Career Navigator, I had the privilege of working directly with clients, empowering them to identify and develop their skill sets, while also sharing my insights and techniques with fellow employment specialists.
One of my proudest accomplishments during this time was the creation of an 'Applying for Jobs and Interviewing' workshop—a resource that continues to equip our team and clients with the tools they need to succeed in today's competitive job market. This workshop embodies my commitment to paying it forward, sharing the knowledge and skills I've acquired to uplift others on their career journeys.
My dedication to professional development and continuous learning led me to pursue two nationally recognized career development certifications, further enhancing my expertise and credibility in the field. In March 2024, I reached another milestone as the first member of our team to be promoted to Career Navigator II—a testament to the growth and progress I've achieved since joining AmeriCorps.
Reflecting on my journey thus far, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and experiences that AmeriCorps has afforded me. It has been a privilege to serve alongside dedicated individuals who share my passion for making a difference in the lives of others. To anyone considering a similar path, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seize the opportunity to serve with AmeriCorps. It is through dedication and effort that we can truly make a meaningful impact, both in our careers and in our communities."
-Lexi A. AmeriCorps State Alum who served with Goodwill of Southern Arizona 21-22.