Paraeducator credits BRS and VRS tutoring and coaching with landing full-time job

Catherine, a paraeducator in Colchester, Connecticut, told meeting attendees that support from BRS and VRS helped her graduate, sharpen job-interview skills and secure a full-time position.

Catherine said she has ADHD and dyslexia and that in high school she "didn't use" BRS much, but in college the program "offered me tutoring and, like, extra help." She described concrete services — tutoring, homework checks and interview coaching — that she said boosted her confidence and prepared her for employment. "Now I have a full time job thanks to VRS," she said.

The testimony emphasized how the programs supported transitions from school to the workforce. Catherine said staff helped with interview preparation and provided a "second pair of eyes" for schoolwork, including grammar and homework review. "It's very helpful for me to have that, like, support behind me," she said, adding that the services helped reduce nerves during interviews.

Catherine described personal outcomes the programs produced: steady employment, financial independence and career goals. She told the room she sees herself in five years married, with children and working as a head teacher. She also encouraged others to inquire about services: "If you have questions, just ask them. They will help you guide."

Catherine closed by thanking the programs and noting her parents "wished they knew about BRS earlier" so they could have accessed help sooner. There was no formal action recorded during her remarks.