Allegheny County Department of Human Services
Alma Jackson

Working two jobs, going to school and raising a son was not an easy task for Alma Jackson, a 47 year-old single parent. A desire to provide more than basic essentials, coupled with wanting to be a good role model to her son, motivated her to embark on a journey to make life better.

The Journey Begins
Allegheny County Department of Human Services (ACDHS) had a perfect office technology training program - Modern Office Systems Training (MOST) - for unemployed, underemployed and disadvantaged people like Alma. MOST develops employment skills that lead to self-sufficiency.

Alma enrolled in the training program and, after nine months, received her certificate in Secretarial Studies and was subsequently hired as a clerk typist II with ACDHS.

But Alma didn’t stop there. She enrolled at the Community College of Allegheny County and traveled by bus to one of four different campuses each night in order to pursue her education. Once she overcame the struggle to discipline herself, Alma worked hard and maintained her focus to achieve her goals. In May 2001, she received an Associate Degree as an Administrative Office Professional.

Gaining Ground
Now, Alma had the momentum. Without hesitation, she enrolled at Park Point University where, after a short time in the Information Technology program, she transferred to the Applied Corporate Communication Accelerated Program. Achieving less than a B average simply wasn’t acceptable to Alma who would often find herself awake until the early morning hours, sacrificing more and more to achieve. But the sacrifices and determination paid off. In December 2003, Alma received her Bachelor’s Degree.

Alma is currently an administrative assistant II for the Allegheny County Department of Human Services and is working toward her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. She expects to graduate in December 2004 and plans to pursue a law degree from Duquesne University.

Alma credits her family and friends for their support and for enduring the tough times when she was on an emotional roller coaster. She also credits the administrators at Allegheny County DHS, who have supported and encouraged her throughout her educational journey.

Alma says that the good news is realizing one’s potential to learn, to grow and to succeed. She continues that one of the most critical factors in achieving career success is finding a career you are passionate about.