Natalia is currently enrolled in the Para Los Niños YouthSource program and is attending Los Angeles Trade Technical College (LATTC) as a first-year, first-generation college student.
Natalia is pursuing a pathway in Advanced Transportation and Manufacturing, specifically the Automotive and Related Technology program. She will receive instruction in maintenance, diagnosis and overhaul procedures of electrical and fuel injection systems, preparing her for her goal of becoming an Automotive Engineer and Automotive Designer.
When she began her courses, Natalia said that she faced challenges as a first-generation college student and a female pursuing a degree and career in a predominantly male occupied space. Natalia recently participated in a career panel to share her journey with YouthSource high school seniors. During the discussion, she shared her struggles and achievements. Natalia worked graveyard shifts while attending college, which was exhausting, but she didn’t stop pursuing her goals.
Natalia reached out to the YouthSource Center for support in finding a better job. Her college and career advisor helped her apply for a position at the Ford Dealership in downtown Los Angeles. Natalia was hired and started her job in mid-April. She said that she is excited to find a job that works well with her college schedule and exposes her to a career in the automotive industry.
EWDD YouthSource Centers
EWDD currently operates 14 YouthSource Centers (YSCs) that provide young Angelenos ages 16-24 services, including mentoring, counseling, job skills training and career exploration. The YSCs are located in underserved neighborhoods throughout the City and offer services at no cost. Natalia's story above highlights the successes of Para Los Niños, which operates the Northeast and Central LA YouthSource Centers.
Natalia is pursuing a pathway in Advanced Transportation and Manufacturing, specifically the Automotive and Related Technology program. She will receive instruction in maintenance, diagnosis and overhaul procedures of electrical and fuel injection systems, preparing her for her goal of becoming an Automotive Engineer and Automotive Designer.
When she began her courses, Natalia said that she faced challenges as a first-generation college student and a female pursuing a degree and career in a predominantly male occupied space. Natalia recently participated in a career panel to share her journey with YouthSource high school seniors. During the discussion, she shared her struggles and achievements. Natalia worked graveyard shifts while attending college, which was exhausting, but she didn’t stop pursuing her goals.
Natalia reached out to the YouthSource Center for support in finding a better job. Her college and career advisor helped her apply for a position at the Ford Dealership in downtown Los Angeles. Natalia was hired and started her job in mid-April. She said that she is excited to find a job that works well with her college schedule and exposes her to a career in the automotive industry.
EWDD YouthSource Centers
EWDD currently operates 14 YouthSource Centers (YSCs) that provide young Angelenos ages 16-24 services, including mentoring, counseling, job skills training and career exploration. The YSCs are located in underserved neighborhoods throughout the City and offer services at no cost. Natalia's story above highlights the successes of Para Los Niños, which operates the Northeast and Central LA YouthSource Centers.
This story is part of the EWDD UPDATES from the week of May 9, 2022. Read this issue and more.
