New Skills for A New World

When she first arrived in the United States four years ago from Laos, Ka had never set foot in a classroom. She did not know her numbers or alphabet, and she was overwhelmed by feelings of self-doubt. Her primary concern was her ability to maintain employment. Ka’s relative had helped her obtain a job at a food company where one of her main responsibilities required the use of a scale to weigh the food. Since Ka had never learned numbers or measurements, she struggled with this task and doubted that she would be able to perform the job duties required to keep the job.

When Ka enrolled in classes with HAP’s Education & Training Department, she began to learn English language skills and math skills, as well as how to navigate key American institutions such as government, education, banking and healthcare. In addition to the large group math instruction, she received small group tutoring related to math topics such as: numeral identification, multi-digit addition/subtraction, and multiplication. She also learned basic computer skills and work-related soft skills. After only six months in the program, Ka’s instructor reported her progress as “amazing”.

Ka no longer worries about losing her job, since she has gained confidence in her ability to complete all job duties to her employer’s satisfaction. Ka states, “Now, I am very happy at work. Weighing food using the scale is such an easy thing to do. I do it without thinking too much.”

Ka is proud of her progress and continues to work hard. She continues to regularly attend HAP’s programs and is determined to soon become self-sufficient.