Public Service Personal Statement

Public service has always been a vital part of my life. Growing up as the daughter of a pastor, I watched my father vigorously serve not only the members of his church, but also his community. He taught me the art of serving, and the attitude on should have while serving. My father has encouraged me to serve the voiceless, powerless, and those often forgotten about. While my father taught me the attitude behind serving, my experiences broadened the scope of my skills which ultimately made me more effective. My volunteer history, undergraduate experience at John Jay, and current employment at Queens Library have not only prepared me, but also reinforced my desire to pursue a career in public service.
In the summer of 2006 my life changed forever

Additionally, my political science and sociology classes taught me that the most effective way to serve the public is through influencing, developing, and implementing policies and programs that justly meet the needs of the community. While my experiences have prepared me differently for public service, my current employment at Queens Library has further developed my skills.
As an Employment Counselor, I oversee a Job Skills Training program that runs in various communities throughout the borough of Queens. This program seeks to aide unemployed or low-income New York residents by using technology to prepare all participants for the ever-changing workforce. With an emphasis on workforce development, I coordinate and instruct various workshops that ensures participants are not only qualified to gain employment, but are also aware of the necessary soft skills that are required to sustain meaningful employment and build a career.
Though my duties include researching, conceptualizing, developing and implementing new program policies and trainings, my greatest responsibility is staying true to Queens Library’s slogan and enriching the lives of all participants that walk through the doors by giving some hope, some a second chance, and others a