Getting a first job is a big deal. It is the first chance for teens to take on a little responsibility – not to mention make a little money. Almost every teenager is exciting about being hired for the first time, but perhaps none as much as this girl.
Julia Hock is not your typical teenager. She is extremely hard working and active in her community. She is a varsity cheerleader, and she helps out at the concession stand at the local little league snack store. This girl is extremely motivated and accomplished. And she has Down Syndrome.
Julia has never let her special needs get in the way, and she doesn’t intend to start now. Recently, Julia decided that she would like a job. She wanted to become more independent, and working at the local Chick-fil-A was the perfect way to accomplish that goal.
Julia applied for the job, and she had plenty of support. “Several kids at school wrote unsolicited letters of recommendation for her,” Julia’s mom, Kerri, told Top30 TV. “and a couple of other kids helped her choose outfits and drove her to the interview.”
The young girl practiced several interviews with her teachers, and she went through two official interviews with the business. Finally, Julia was ready for an answer. Her mom posted a video of the final phone call on Facebook.
Julia answered and gave her name. With a little advice from her mom, she was well on her way to finding out whether or not she was hired. She seemed a little nervous, but she was definitely hopeful.
She got the job! Julia’s face lit up when she heard the news. She even had to cover her hand over her face while her employer discussed the next steps with her. This girl could not have been more excited.
The whole family had been waiting with her, and they were thrilled to be able to celebrate with Julia. The brother who was recording spun the camera around so that each family member could show their excitement.
When Julia heard her when her first day of work would be, she almost started crying. This job meant so much to her, and she was finally able to add it on to her long list of accomplishments.
Her mom was overjoyed to share the news. “Julia Hock is a working woman!” she posted. “After two interviews, lots of interview practice with her teachers, and team of her friends helping her pick outfits and putting in a good word-Juj was hired. So proud of our girl!”
Julia’s success is proof that with commitment, anything is possible.
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