Connecting to Professional Success: Katelyn’s Story

At just eight years old, Katelyn found her safe haven at her grandparents’ house. It was a steady refuge from the instability she experienced with her mom. After a years-long court battle, she moved in with them permanently and embraced the values that shaped her future: hard work, resilience, and saving for tomorrow.  

“As much as my grandparents tried to provide everything for me and my siblings, I knew they didn’t have that much money, so I always tried to work and save.”   

That determination carried Katelyn through college and into her job search. With her savings as a cushion, she spent months customizing cover letters and filling out lengthy applications, and employment surveys.  

“It was hard because I wouldn’t hear back,” remembers Katelyn. “I would just get an automated message saying that my application had been submitted and that’s it.”  

Then came Just in Time. Through the Pathways to Financial Power service, Katelyn gained confidence and support, and an invitation to a résumé review with HR professionals. That single event became a breakthrough.  

There she met Jack, an HR representative who not only reviewed her resumé and interview skills but also recognized her potential. Although it wasn’t meant as a job interview, Jack later reached out to offer Katelyn a position in customer support at HM+Electronics.  

“Every day, I’m building my future,” said Katelyn. “I see myself climbing the ladder at HM+Electronics, maybe even becoming a supervisor one day.”