“I had two young children, 3 and 5 years old at the time,” Hong said. “I was tired of working different schedules every week, always very long hours, and tired of not having my weekends off to spend time with my kids.”

Hong knew that a better option existed, so she went to Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS), a community-based organization that SJI works with, for advice. Hong had already taken a medical billing course at South Seattle Community College, but wasn’t having much luck landing a job because of her lack of on-the-job experience.

Case Manager Sam Him directed Hong to Seattle Jobs Initiative’s 22-week Office Occupations program. The course curriculum covers all of the software needed in a basic administrative position, and the class includes an internship program where students spend two days per week in a real-life job experience.

“I was very interested in the internship part of the program,” said Hong. “I knew that this opportunity could help get me a job.”

Little did she know, her SJI internship would turn into a full-time permanent job. Hong interned with the HR department of Swedish Physicians Division, and when her internship ended, Swedish hired her full-time.

“Hong was fully involved in class, and never missed her homework. Her optimistic and hard-working attitude put her at the top of her class, so I’m not surprised that she was hired on after her internship,” said Linda Rider, SJI’s employment broker.

Hong’s first title was A/R Clerk but within nine months she was promoted to Insurance Representative I. “Everything in this position is very new to me, so I’ve had to learn a lot-- but I love learning,” she said.

Hong has honest advice for others looking at the program. “SJI's class was really good and I’m glad I did it. I needed it to get my first job. But you have to be serious about wanting a better job because it’s like going to work every day. You have to dress like you’re in the workplace even while at school, and you can’t be late.”

Her commitment and hard work has paid off. Hong now has a job with a regular schedule, paid vacation, health benefits, and plenty of potential for career advancement. She enjoys her weekends with her children, and she frequently recommends SJI’s program to her friends and acquaintances.