May 29, 2025
Ashley Alexander, Employee Services Support Specialist for the Employee Services Center, Human Resources. Ashley was hired in 2024. We spoke with her to learn about her career journey and advice for job seekers.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Ashley Alexander, and I am a proud lifelong resident of New Haven. I am currently a student at Albertus Magnus College and a devoted mother of two, residing in the Newhallville area. I am actively involved in several Yale University affinity groups, including YAAA (Yale African American Affinity Group), FLY (Future Leaders of Yale), and WWN (Working Women’s Network), as well as local community organizations. I am also a dedicated member of The Empowerment Christian Church. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading autobiographies, and singing in a Brooklyn-based gospel choir called S.O.V.
Tell us about your job search experience.
The New Haven Works and the New Haven Hiring Initiative (NHHI) have been instrumental in helping me secure permanent employment with Yale University. From the outset, New Haven Works provided invaluable support by connecting me with employers actively seeking local talent. Their personalized approach ensured I was matched with opportunities that aligned with my skills, experience, and career goals. NHHI’s strong emphasis on fostering local talent not only opened doors for me but also empowered me to pursue a role that is both fulfilling and aligned with my core aspiration: helping others.
Throughout the process, New Haven Works and NHHI offered a wide range of career development resources, including resume workshops and interview preparation. These tools significantly boosted my confidence and helped me present myself more effectively. Additionally, NHHI facilitated key networking opportunities, connecting me with professionals across various sectors. It was through these connections and the Bridge 2 Employment program that I ultimately secured my position at Yale University.
Today, I hold a rewarding, permanent position at Yale University’s Employee Service Center. This opportunity would not have been possible without the ongoing support and commitment of the New Haven Hiring Initiative to connect local residents with meaningful employment. NHHI has served as a vital bridge between my ambitions and the career success I now enjoy, and I am deeply grateful for the resources and connections that made this achievement a reality.
Tell us about your current roles at Yale.
I am a proud member of the Employee Service Center at Yale University, where I serve at the welcome desk located at 221 Whitney Avenue. In this role, I assist faculty, staff, students, and colleagues, providing a warm and helpful presence to everyone who walks through our doors. This position allows me to let my light shine through my positive attitude and genuine commitment to helping others.
I began my journey last summer at Yale University in the Graduate Housing Department on the Medical School campus, where I had the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with both staff and students. After my assignment in Housing concluded, I interviewed for a temporary role with the Employee Service Center. Shortly thereafter, I was offered a staff position, and I am now honored to be a valued member of the ESC team.
You participated in one Yale’s pathway programs. What was the experience like? How does the culture of learning and development at Yale impact you?
I am a proud alumnus of the Bridge 2 Employment pathway program, offered in partnership with New Haven Works. This program provided a variety of valuable workshops, including Excel training, Outlook advancement, and sessions focused on personal development and professional growth.
I have the pleasure of calling Fallon Thomas a mentor and a powerful motivational force in my career journey. I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from my family and the ESC team, who have been instrumental in helping me navigate challenges in my role. Their encouragement, guidance, and willingness to assist have been key to my continued growth and success.
What advice do you have for other job-seekers?
My advice to anyone seeking employment is simple: don’t give up. Stay positive and always be your own source of encouragement. Even in moments of doubt, shake off the negativity and remind yourself, “I am sunshine” wherever I go, the sun is shining, and it’s a beautiful day.
Take full advantage of the opportunities around you. Attend open events hosted by the University, join affinity groups, and present your best self to everyone you meet—you never know who might become a key part of your network or help open a door. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, complete trainings, and always strive for more. Keep pushing forward greater is always within reach.
What is next for you?
I am currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at Albertus Magnus College—I made the Dean’s List with a 4.0 GPA this past semester. And as I continue to work toward both personal and financial growth, my next goal is to complete Yale’s Homebuyer’s Program. In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m gaining valuable hands-on experience at the Employee Service Center (ESC), learning from my coworkers and assisting in the I-9 office especially as their busy season approaches.