September 26, 2025
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a New Haven resident, originally from Queens, New York, and I moved here in 2018.
Before joining Yale, I worked in the healthcare field as a PCA, which taught me a lot about patience, care, and attention to detail.
I’m Jamaican, and one of my favorite hobbies is cooking and trying new dishes. I love exploring different flavors and sharing meals with others. It’s a big part of my culture and something that brings me joy.
Tell us about your job search experience.
Participating in New Haven Works was a valuable learning experience. I started with New Haven Works in 2019 after a friend told me about the program. They set me up instantly with an orientation and resume building.
While some of the job opportunities they suggested didn’t exactly align with my ideal career path, I came to understand that every role can be a steppingstone. They emphasized the importance of being open to opportunities that build skills, expand networks, and create momentum even if the position isn’t a perfect fit at first.
I got my first temporary position at the Health Plan during the pandemic as a Test Site Coordinator. My role was to greet patients and visitors coming in, coach first-time self-testers with testing procedures, sign in patients using Epic, and check inventory to make sure we were stocked with PPE.
I also had the pleasure of working with the NHHI team and am thrilled to say that they played a significant role in helping me obtain temporary positions that paved the way for my permanent placement.
Tell us about your current roles at Yale.
I currently work as a Senior Administrative Assistant at the Jackson School Business Office at Yale University. I support the business office team with a wide range of responsibilities including travel arrangements, expense reports, creating suppliers, processing purchase orders, tracking payments, event planning, purchasing, and more.
My day-to-day involves working closely with faculty, staff, and vendors to ensure that financial and administrative tasks are handled smoothly and accurately. I enjoy the variety in my role it keeps things interesting and allows me to learn something new all the time.
I’ve been in my full-time role for five months, and one of my favorite things about my job is being part of a supportive team and having opportunities to grow professionally. Even in a short time, I’ve learned a lot from my manager, Erin Murphy, especially about the international side of expenses.
I feel more confident in my role.
You participated in a pathway program before you secured your staff position. What was the experience like? How does the culture of learning and development at Yale impact you?
In August of 2023, I participated in the Financial Assistant Pathway Program at the Yale University Art Gallery. This experience was incredibly valuable and helped shape my understanding of financial operations within an academic institution. During the program, Catherine and Charlene helped me to gain hands-on experience with key financial processes such as creating purchase orders, preparing expense reports, and running financial reports. I also learned about broader financial responsibilities and systems that support departmental operations. These skills not only strengthened my technical abilities but also gave me insight into the kind of behind-the-scenes work that keeps institutions running smoothly.
Before my position came to an end, my team referred me to a permanent position with the YTSS department. I got an interview and was offered the position as an Administrative Assistant.
What advice do you have for other job-seekers?
My advice to anyone trying to get a full-time position at Yale is to stay open and be patient. Sometimes the first job opportunity you hear about may not be your ideal role, but it can be a steppingstone that helps you build experience and gets your foot in the door. This will not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your professionalism and dedication. Programs like New Haven Works and NHHI, helped me understand the value of being flexible and willing to learn. Take advantage of training opportunities, stay confident, and show you’re eager to learn Yale values, grow, and unleash your potential.
What is next for you?
I want to take full advantage of everything Yale has to offer whether it’s training programs, professional development opportunities, or new responsibilities that help me grow. I’m excited to keep learning, expanding my skills, and contributing even more to the Jackson School Business Office.
I also hope to connect more with the Yale community and continue growing both professionally and personally.