by Emliy Pontini of South Essex Community Council

As a young professional working in the employment services sector, I would have never imagined being where I am today—partly because I wasn’t aware that employment services even existed.

It wasn’t until I started working as an intake worker in the Career Hub at South Essex Community Council that I recognized there are career specialists dedicated to helping people like me navigate their career paths. 

Looking back, I wish I had known about these services earlier. 

How Avoiding Career Support Held Me Back 

As a 17-year-old recent high school graduate, I felt enormous pressure to predict what my future would look like. I was surrounded by peers who seemed to have it all figured out—some had clear career goals, while others were confidently starting apprenticeships or post-secondary programs.

On the other hand, I felt lost. On top of this, there was external pressure from my parents to choose “something practical,” which only added to my anxiety. 

When the time came, I chose psychology. Not because I was passionate about it, but because I thought, “I’m good at essays and social sciences, so this must be the right path for me.”

It wasn’t until much later that I realized I had boxed myself into a career path without fully exploring my strengths, interests, or the many opportunities available to me. 

Finding the Right Resources 

What I didn’t know at the time was that there are resources and professionals who specialize in career exploration and development.

Employment services, like those offered through Employment Ontario agencies, are designed to help youth navigate these critical decisions.

hey provide a wide range of supports, from career assessments to job placement assistance, and help you connect with mentors and training programs. 

I often wonder how different my journey might have been had I known these services existed during high school.

I could have benefited from career workshops, gained insight into local job markets, or even tried job-shadowing opportunities to discover what I truly enjoy. Instead, I made decisions based on what I thought was expected of me, rather than what aligned with my skills and passions. 

The transition from high school to the workforce or higher education is not easy.

It requires a deep understanding of oneself—knowing your strengths, identifying your interests, and exploring your options. At that age, this can feel overwhelming, especially with limited work experience, job-searching skills, and financial independence.

On top of that, the emotional and social adjustments during this period can be daunting. 

This is where employment services come in. They provide more than just job leads; they offer clarity and guidance, helping youth navigate this crucial phase of life. From resume building and interview prep, to connecting you with apprenticeships or mentorship programs, employment services empower youth with the tools they need to succeed. 

My Thoughts 

For me, discovering the world of employment services was a game-changer. It not only reshaped my career path but also inspired me to help others who are in the same position I was once in.

If you’re in high school or have recently graduated and feel unsure about your next steps, I encourage you to seek out these services.

Talk to a career counselor, attend workshops, or visit a local career hub. You don’t have to navigate this alone. 

Choosing your career doesn’t have to be scary, and you certainly don’t have to do it all on your own. The resources are out there, and professionals are ready to help.

 If I could go back and tell my younger self one thing, it would be this: “You don’t have to have it all figured out right away, but don’t be afraid to ask for help.”