Meet Sandra Wilson, a social worker in NYC from Bogota, Colombia

 

Communities thrive when everyone is equipped with the tools for success. New Women New Yorkers believes in the vast potential that every immigrant woman coming to New York has to contribute to our city, regardless of her national origin, cultural background, or educational level. Donate today to our campaign Support Immigrant Women to Enter the Workforce: https://support-immigrant-women.causevox.com

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Sandra Wilson, from Bogota, Colombia. I moved to New York less than two years ago. It has been an enormous challenge but an amazing one.

What was it like trying to find work when you arrived in New York?

First of all, looking for a job in my field was difficult. Even though I have the skills and experience in my native country that make me qualified for positions, I’ve found many barriers, such as the language, the job culture, and finding the right opportunity. The good thing is that these obstacles were not strong enough to stop me from achieving my goals.

How did you discover LEAD and what made you decide to join?

One of the first steps to feeling confident, happy, and relaxed was joining the LEAD program. I remember the time I was studying at the library. I looked at the flyers the library provided at the information desk and WOW! I said to myself, I must participate in that program. I am glad I did, because since the beginning I’ve learned that I am an extraordinary woman. I also met other incredible immigrant women like me.

How did your participation in LEAD have an impact on your life?

During the program, we reviewed life skills and I learned tips to keep in mind when I am heading to job interviews. I also had the opportunity to revamp my resume and receive feedback. When I participated in the different events that LEAD included, I found myself in the midst of great experiences. I am so grateful and happy with Arielle’s team.

Thanks to the skills learned during and after the program, I am going to start a new job on November 26 in my professional field of social work. I applied for the position when I found out about the opportunity in one of Arielle’s emails. She shares information about job opportunities, events, and activities with all of the LEAD participants. I was so lucky!

What was the hiring process like, and how did your participation in LEAD help?

Throughout the hiring process, I used techniques that I learned from the LEAD program. First, I had a telephone interview. I prepared my questions and practiced ahead of time, just as LEAD volunteers taught me in the interview workshop. I also practiced with my husband answering  possible questions I might be asked.

When I was called for a second round, the personal interview, I did most of the things that my LEAD counselor, Melina, recommended. I really appreciate her time. She helped me to prepare the presentation I was asked to make for the organization. She also reviewed my speech and gave me advice. Before the interview, I performed Arielle’s superhero pose. During the interview, I used tips that I learned during mock-interview events that Arielle had invited me to. In addition, I remembered to be calm, confident, and positive, as Rockefeller Foundation’s volunteer advised during a LEAD event in September.

Prior to being informed about my new job opportunity, I used other skills learned from the LEAD program. For example, after a job interview, I wrote a letter that showed my gratitude for the time they gave and expressed my interest in working with them.

What was it like adjusting to life in New York? What do you do in your spare time?

Today, I can say that I am used to living in New York. Waking in the Big Apple is no longer just a dream! I am living it! At times I miss my family in Colombia, grandmother’s desserts, and the fresh bread and coffee I used to have at home. I love experiencing life in NYC and I have been participating in events and activities that I didn’t have in my country. For example, I go to the gym and hang out with multicultural friends. I also have dinner and spend time with my husband, who lived in the US but far away from me prior to us getting married.  

What is your favorite dish from your home country?

The most important thing is to show and share with people who I am and parts of my culture. In that spirit, please find a Colombian baker and eat an arepa, my favorite dish.

Communities thrive when everyone is equipped with the tools for success. New Women New Yorkers believes in the vast potential that every immigrant woman coming to New York has to contribute to our city, regardless of her national origin, cultural background, or educational level. Donate today to our campaign Support Immigrant Women to Enter the Workforce: https://support-immigrant-women.causevox.com