Naomi’s Story: A First-Generation Journey to American Express     

by StreetWise Partners
November 18, 2024

“I bought-in to the story that if you work hard in school and get into college, you will be rich and happy. But I never learned about how to prepare to get a job.”

Growing up as a first-generation college student with Bangladeshi parents, Naomi faced more unknowns than she could count. With parents who had no experience with the American education and corporate world, she had to carve her own path through the complexities of school and career planning.

“There was just so much I didn’t know, and I didn’t even know how to find the information,” she recalls. “I was always playing catch-up.”

After figuring out how to navigate SATs and the financial requirements of going to college, Naomi was accepted into the University of Buffalo. She struggled to adapt to college life on her own and ended up not pursuing a degree.

“I bought-in to the story that if you work hard in school and get into college, you’ll be rich and happy,” said Naomi. “But I never learned about how to prepare to get a job.”

During COVID-19, she enrolled in Per Scholas’ cybersecurity program, obtaining two certificates but realizing that cybersecurity wasn’t her true calling. This led her to StreetWise Partners, which she discovered through an event hosted by Per Scholas.

StreetWise Partners provided the mentorship Naomi had been missing. She struggled with social anxiety, but took the leap, recognizing the value of a new opportunity. Working with a mentor through the StreetWise Bridge program helped her “come out of her shell” and learn essential skills like how to network and interview. She also gained the confidence to communicate her strengths and build relationships — which was transformative in her career growth.

As her career path evolved, Naomi took on internships through other programs, including a role at Fidelity, then BNY Mellon. Each experience helped her refine her interests and led her to a full-time role in product management.

When she was let go due to a change in management, she once again turned to StreetWise. This time, the StreetWise Talent Services team helped her not only practice interviews but also work on managing expectations as she adapted to an increasingly competitive and shifting job market.

After a few months refocusing her efforts and buoyed by the StreetWise team and resources, she landed a position as Senior Associate Product Manager at American Express. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “StreetWise has been a gift that keeps on giving. Years after completing the program, I can still reach out and get support whenever I need it.”

Naomi’s advice for hiring managers and potential Employer Partners:

Naomi has sound words of wisdom for anyone that is looking to hire top talent with exceptional skills and perspectives.

"StreetWise alumni bring unique perspectives shaped by life experiences. These candidates have had the world as their classroom and worked hard to be where they are, which means they bring a distinct set of skills, resilience, and resourcefulness to add to your team.”

If you are interested in working with us to hire StreetWise job seekers, become an Employer Partner today.