My Hopelink Story: Stella Osipova
Why did you decide to take Hopelink’s computer education classes?
I couldn’t use computers. I was afraid of them and afraid of losing information. Computer language is like a third language and I didn’t even understand what it meant to “shut down.” Computers help in your life and you need them for a job.
How did you hear about Hopelink?
My son Samvel, who’s eight, and I were staying with my cousin and his wife. They looked up on the Internet and found out about Hopelink.
To you, what was the most valuable part of the computer classes?
People are patient here. They encourage me even if I make mistakes. It helps with my self-confidence. The teachers and tutors can explain things and I have a good memory so I have learned a lot. Now I understand the big picture: the hardware, and the operating system and the programs and how it works together. Also, I have all the papers from the classes so I can look back if I forget something. That’s very helpful.
What can you do now that you couldn’t do before you took the classes?
Everything! Now I am more comfortable, I am not confused and not afraid. I know Microsoft Word and Windows and I want to learn more. I can use computers to get information from the Internet. I can fill out job applications on-line. If you don’t know anyone in a city, you can use the Internet to find directions to someplace you need to go. The other day, I went shopping at a store that has a code you can type in on a website to see if you won something, and I went online to see if I won. I didn’t, but it was fun anyway. I can order books online, too, and I can send pictures of Samvel to my family in Russia.
Are there other ways you want to use your computer skills?
Yes! I am trying to learn computers as well and as fast as I can. I am going to use these skills for my education and to advance in college. I am going to type my homework on the computers at Hopelink’s computer lab and at the library because I don’t have a computer here. I want to get certified as an administrative assistant. If I can do that, I will try for office manager. I am not self-sufficient yet, but Hopelink is helping me take important steps.
What do you tell people about Hopelink?
I tell people who need help to get a job, Hopelink can help you with writing resumes, and references, and help with finding a job. Classes in job readiness are available. I see a lot of people come and computer tutors help them. Everything is here to help people. I would like to volunteer myself later. I see lot of people help each other. It’s a wonderful American custom that people care about other people, and I would like to do what I can.
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