When Literacy Leads to Full-Time Work

A Journey Through Literacy and Employment: Marissa’s Story

Marissa arrived in the United States as a highly educated professional who had worked as a pharmacist in her home country. Despite her strong academic background, limited English proficiency prevented her from continuing her career. Determined to rebuild professional stability, Marissa enrolled in a literacy program with the goal of strengthening her English skills and expanding her employment opportunities.

Marissa was paired with volunteer tutor Joanne McDonough, a retired educator with experience in elementary education and literacy instruction, as well as teaching students with visual impairments. Together, they focused on building practical English skills that Marissa could use immediately in daily life and at work.

While studying English, Marissa worked at a Subway restaurant, where many of her coworkers spoke her native Russian. Although this provided steady employment, it offered limited opportunity to practice English in a fully immersive environment. As her confidence grew, Marissa sought opportunities that required greater use of English and independently applied for a seasonal position at Costco.

Assigned to the bakery department, Marissa worked in a fast-paced setting where communication with coworkers occurred entirely in English. Her tutor observed that this experience marked a turning point. Being surrounded by fluent English speakers required Marissa to rely on her developing language skills throughout each shift, reinforcing her vocabulary, listening comprehension, and confidence.

In less than a year, Marissa made significant progress—strengthening her English skills, increasing her confidence, and moving into roles with greater responsibility. She continued her studies at another literacy agency location and tested at the intermediate level, confirming her continued growth.

After a six month follow up, Marissa shared an exciting update. She had secured a full-time position at Amazon, earning $20.75 per hour. She initially worked 36 hours per week and soon transitioned to a 40-hour schedule.

In her own words, Marissa wrote:

“You have no idea how happy I am that you helped me in English.
Yes, I got a job at Amazon in a warehouse.
I started seasonal job for 36 hours, and last week I did the transfer for 40 hours full time — and I got it. I’m so happy.

This is my big deal for the beginning of the new year.
Thank you for supporting me.”

Marissa credited her tutoring experience with Joanne, and her immersive work environment at Costco for helping her build the confidence needed to succeed in her current role. Her journey demonstrates how adult literacy support can lead directly to meaningful, sustainable employment. With stronger English skills and renewed confidence, Marissa continues to move closer to her long-term goal of returning to her profession as a pharmacist.