Occupation: Career Resource Specialist, Work Opportunities Unlimited

What initially inspired you to attend NECC? Where were you on your professional/personal journey prior to enrolling?

Martha Cortes ’25

I decided to enroll at NECC to take ESOL classes back in 2013 after I moved to Haverhill from the Dominican Republic. Once I completed the classes successfully, I enrolled in the dental assistant program.

After I had my first child in 2017, I had to decide between working full-time and going to school, and I ended up leaving school and working full-time at Dunkin Donuts to support my family and take care of my daughter. I went back to school after I had my second child… This time it was different because I didn’t want to be a dental assistant anymore. I wanted a career where I could help people and have that one-on-one relationship. I decided to pursue an associate degree in human services.

I was very shy and during my first semester I barely took part in discussions in the classroom. I remember that, one time, professor Lisa Fabbri-Lopez sent me an email saying that she saw that I understood the content and that I completed all my homework. She said “You just need to find your voice.”

After that day, I started to get more involved and to speak my mind. Brian McKenna also helped me by providing constructive feedback and allowing me to see skills that I didn’t even know I had. I was lucky enough that the MassReconnect program started shortly afterward so I got to go to college for free.

In what ways has NECC helped you on your educational and professional path?

I remember that, in 2023, I was taking the Community Resources and Population class. Professor Lisa [Fabbri-Lopez] used to bring guests speakers from different companies every week, and some of them were hiring… I decided to apply to companies that could also help with my practicum.

I was not sure about the population I wanted to work with, although I had the opportunity to learn about different companies in that class. One of those companies was Work Opportunities Unlimited. I learned how they support clients and I was interested in learning more. I got support from NECC to create my first resume, applied, and shortly thereafter was hired full time.  I did practicum 1 in the spring semester of 2024 and practicum 2 in the fall of 2024. Thanks to that internship, I was able to use my transferable skills, grow my confidence, and support people from various back grounds and cultures. If it weren’t for the curriculum of that class, I would not have learned about Work Opportunities Unlimited or the opportunity to go into the field earlier in my career.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy meeting people where they are and making meaningful connections with clients, families and employers. I love having the flexibility to work full-time, study full-time and take care of my kids. I currently support individuals to find and retain employment from different referral sources and have taken on some other responsibilities in my role as a Career Resource Specialist as well, such as being a peer mentor to new team members and making connections with different employers in the area by leading company interviews.

From my family I learned how valuable it is to be resourceful. From church I learned that helping others is more than a choice; it is a calling. From NECC, I learned the tools to be able to support others effectively and meet each individual where they are.

How did NECC prepare you for your current program at Merrimack College?

I went for an Associate Degree in Human Services at NECC, and I was encouraged to complete a certificate to acquire knowledge in other areas within human services. I ended up completing my associate degree and three other certificates. By completing those certificates I earned more credits towards my bachelor’s degree. Merrimack College took all my credits and I will be able to complete a bachelor’s in psychology within a year. NECC provided me with the tools to succeed anywhere I go. I received valuable feedback, which I implemented into my professional life. After obtaining my associate, I felt confident that I could do more. Thanks to God and NECC, today I have a job that I love and a foundation to continue pursuing my dreams of becoming a social worker.

Anything else you’d like our audience to know about you?

I am grateful for everyone that helped me to get where I am today. I would advise new and current students to take advantage of the different resources available, from ESOL to career services.

Each month, the NECC Alumni Office shares interviews with our accomplished graduate population through its alumni newsletter. If you have a story to share and would like to be considered for a future edition, please fill in an Alumni Update Form or email alumni@necc.mass.edu.