Success Stories
Gisela Ruiz
Gisela Ruiz is not in the business of backing down in the face of adversity. When she decided to have a baby, she refused to be sidetracked from achieving her aspirations. One year later, she says that her beautiful baby boy is the best thing that ever happened to her, keeping her motivated and working that much harder to accomplish her dreams.
When time off from her pregnancy left her behind in her high school classes, Gisela came to Goodwill to learn about Work Source's WIA Youth Services program, where she met WIA case manager Theresa Medrano. With self-determination and Theresa's support, Gisela received tutoring and was able to graduate early from high school. Through her unwavering desire to continue her education, she enrolled in Austin Community College and obtained an internship in the medical field at the Children's Wellness Center. Her positive attitude and dedication was seen in her work every day, and upon completion of the internship she was asked by the Wellness Center to come back and continue her outstanding work.
Now a nursing student with plans of becoming a clinical assistant, Gisela attributes much of her success to the friend she found in Theresa. “She has always been there, encouraging me and helping me,” says Gisela. She continues to touch base with Theresa several times a week, committed to succeeding in her future career.
Theresa cherishes their flourishing relationship as well. “Gisela is an amazing young woman with an enormous drive to be successful in life,” she says. “It has been a pleasure working with someone who is so dedicated to her own success.”
A loving mother who celebrated the first birthday of her son on December 3, 2006, Gisela is looking forward to a rewarding career where she can help others in need. “In five years I see myself in a position of helping people and continue improving myself.”