Meet Our Amazing Client Crystal

Crystal has found her professional calling, and she credits NewBridge Services’ alternative education and career program with helping her onto the path. The 25-year-old mother of two is working in emergency medical care and pursuing a career in law enforcement, leaving the social and academic struggles she faced in middle school and high school far behind.

On her 16th birthday in 2014, a Friday, Crystal withdrew from her high school, and that Monday, she started classes at NewBridge JobsPlus. Her reading level rose and her interpersonal skills vastly improved. The program included tours of colleges and mock interviews for job hunting. Within four months, she completed the program’s requirements and earned her New Jersey high school diploma.

“I wanted better opportunities for my life, more than high school had to offer, and NewBridge gave me the opportunity to accomplish more goals I had in mind,” she said.

Crystal worked in child care while studying to become a certified medical assistant. She developed an interest in emergency medical care over the years, landing a job at a hospital emergency department, and most recently at one that handles psychiatric crises. Crystal may put her training to use in law enforcement. Urged by friends, she took the New Jersey law enforcement exam, and has been interviewing for positions.

“I cherish NewBridge. The program and staff guided me with the tools needed to blossom and achieve all the goals wanted,” she said.