On the Job: Donna Coles  

For Donna Coles, being a lawyer was the only career she had imagined for herself when she was in high school.  

“I always wanted to be a lawyer, so I surprised myself when I decided to enter the health field,” says Cole. “After my grandfather passed away, I realized he hadn’t gotten the proper care, and that made me want to help. I like helping people, especially the elderly. Working with them connects with me on a deeper level.” 

Coles is a 2022 graduate of the International Academy of Flint (IAF) where she participated in TeenQuest, a career preparation and leadership program. Her time in TeenQuest helped her overcome her shyness and learn how to enter the workforce.  

“TeenQuest helped me with my communication skills,” says Coles. “I still use the interview strategies I learned during the program.” 

The program helped her with the skills she’d need to interview for a job, including how to speak to interviewers and communicate better. While in TeenQuest, Coles also participated in Summer Youth Initiative, where she worked at IAF, helping young students with their foundational knowledge.  

Once Coles graduated, one of her mentors informed her that Soaring CNA Training Center, LLC, was offering a scholarship to two TeenQuest students to participate in their training for free. A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) who provides basic care to patients in nursing homes and hospitals. Within a matter of months, Coles began her new profession.  

“I help out with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living),” says Coles. “I assist with dressing the patients and their hygiene, changing them, making sure residents get to and from appointments, documenting, and helping with feeding assistance. We also cook for patients who can’t cook for themselves.”    

As much as she loves being a CNA, she still has other goals she wants to accomplish. She intends to attend Mott Community College, which will allow her to work as she pursues a bachelor’s degree in nursing. 

What skills did you use from TeenQuest/Summer Youth Initiative when interviewing for your current position? 

TeenQuest prepared me for interviews and taught me how to give interviewers the information they needed. I liked the experience, the mentors, and going to interviews.  

Do you have a memory or moment that stands out from the program? 

I remember when all the TeenQuest students got together for a volunteer clean-up. It was nice seeing everyone together as a community to help.  

What advice can you offer current and former students of TeenQuest/Summer Youth Initiative? 

I would tell them to follow through with the program. It will help them with their career pathways. Take advantage of the program and the resources.  

What is your proudest moment since graduating TeenQuest? 

I got my CNA job not long after graduating from the program. I wasn’t confident in myself, but taking TeenQuest gave me confidence going into the interview.