The Power of Persistence

Annie

“Never give up on your dreams".

That’s the mantra Annie repeats to herself and enthusiastically shares with others who are having a bad day or doubting themselves.

Annie knows first hand the power of persistence — she had to persevere over several obstacles before finding the right path — her path.

After earning an English degree from University of California, Irvine (UCI), Annie was on the hunt for a job.

Like most college graduates, she started the search with positivity and gusto - ready to embrace new opportunities and responsibilities.

Annie soon hit her first roadblock. Employers seemed unwilling to even give her a chance because of her physical limitations.

These limitations have never stopped her before, so why would they now?, she wondered.

Annie stayed faithful and determined. It was a few months of uncertainty and rejection, but finally things started to look up.

A referral to Goodwill of Orange County through the Regional Center of Orange County’s Paid Internship Program finally set Annie on her path — the path to success she’d been seeking.

With Goodwill’s guidance and support, Annie soon landed an internship at a financial services agency for the role of Administrative Assistant to one of the company’s Financial and Insurance Directors.

Once the door was opened for Annie, there was no stopping her.

Annie quickly mastered programs like Salesforce, Microsoft Outlook and LinkedIn with ease. She quickly became an indispensable member of the team - she was even nicknamed “the best recruiter” by fellow team members.

After just one year, Annie was offered a full-time position at the company.

With persistence and grace, Annie achieved her dreams of finding meaningful employment with a company that truly values and cares for her.

She is an incredible role model to others who might doubt themselves or their abilities.

Annie now confidently smiles and simply shares, “I am proof that you can change your path in life.”