Need Help? How to Find Your Career in Greenville, SC

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Changing career paths, going back to school or pursuing new certifications can be daunting tasks, especially when you’re not sure where to start. Luckily, the Greenville Chamber has created a program that helps these eager individuals through every step of the process. For adults interested in enrolling in college courses or certificate programs but unsure what is available, how to pay for it or how to apply, TalentRiseGVL is a valuable resource in helping residents find the right career in Greenville, SC. 

Get Help Finding the Right Career in Greenville

Figuring out which program is right for you and enrolling in college or certificate courses is not always an easy process. Barriers like tuition, child care, administrative holds, existing debt and lack of transportation can make the whole process overwhelming and difficult. 

Through the TalentRiseGVL program, individuals are matched with a career navigator who works with them one on one to determine which program to apply for based on their skills, needs and interests, then assists with application and enrollment.

“As a career navigator, I am very passionate about what I do and the service I provide to our community members,” says Benedicte Axboe of the Greenville Chamber. “There are so many great schools, programs and funding opportunities available, but adults are often unaware of what is available to them, how to access it and what questions to ask.”

In a job market where 40% of employers have difficulty filling positions and there’s an average job turnover rate of 18%, it’s more important than ever to get more skilled, qualified and educated people into the workforce –and TalentRiseGVL’s work will undoubtedly help improve those statistics. 

Great Successes

Narcisa Tufekcic is a stay-at-home mom who finished her GED in December 2023. Wanting to continue her education but not knowing where to start, she enrolled in the TalentRiseGVL program. 

“My background comes from Europe,” Tufekcic says. “European and American processes of enrolling in college are quite different. Before I went with the TalentRiseGVL program, I felt so confused and kind of lost in place, but the program helped me to understand the steps of college enrollment and gave me more confidence.”

Tufekcic decided to apply to Greenville Technical College to pursue an associate in arts, and with assistance from her career navigator, Axboe, she was accepted and enrolled in classes. 

“She helped me with the enrollment steps for my program and explained everything I needed to know about the American education system in such a kind, respectful and patient way,” Tufekcic says. “I am forever grateful.”

Julio Parra’s story is a similar one. After finishing his GED, he also didn’t quite know where to turn. After enrolling in the TalentRiseGVL program in 2023, he decided to go back to college.

“Going back to school after years of not being in an academic setting was undoubtedly challenging, especially with all the forms to fill out and the requirements to commit to,” Parra says. “However, TalentRiseGVL provides excellent guidance step by step, which is essential for success. I’m glad to have found this program.”

In Parra’s experience, strong and consistent support from members of the program has made all the difference, especially when it comes to staying on top of deadlines for financial aid forms and registration. He also finds the regular networking events particularly valuable, as he can connect with others who are going through the same experience.

“Through this program, I’ve had the privilege of meeting unique individuals from diverse backgrounds who share the same passion for advancing their education and achieving their aspirations for a brighter future,” Parra says.

Discovering Opportunities

Another participant, Naketia Smalls, also praises the networking events, as they provide an opportunity to meet future employers.

Like Tufekcic and Parra, Smalls has been profoundly impacted by her participation in the TalentRiseGVL program. 

“I love TalentRiseGVL because they’re leading by example on being the change they want to see in the community – everything is done with care and compassion,” Smalls says.

“Not only are they helping you get an education, but they’re helping you make connections that can catapult you to your next opportunity.”