Career Conversations at The HOPE Program: Shared Stories, Real Advice, and a Reminder That It’s Never Too Late

In partnership with The City Tutors, the HOPE Program hosted a powerful career mentorship event that created space for honest conversations about work, education, and the journeys that bring us to both. With mentors joining in-person and virtually from industries including tech, media, finance, and communications, the afternoon was designed to offer not just advice—but connection.

“You are your brand. And you have to be your best brand ambassador.”
That opening message from Kevin Brown, Program Success Manager at The City Tutors, resonated deeply with the room.

For many in the room, this message wasn’t just relevant—it was timely. Adult learners in HOPE’s training programs, many re-entering school or the workforce, found themselves reflected in the stories of panelists who had made major life pivots, overcome hostile work environments, and continued to grow and evolve at every stage of life.

Panel Takeaways: Honest, Practical, and Human

• Beth Campbell shared her decision to leave a toxic workplace.
  “I chose me. I’m not the problem—I left a problem.” She emphasized that confidence can grow over time—“It was mirrored back to me by my team. They told me who I was for them.”
  
  

• Emily Eldredge spoke about redirection through rejection.
  “Stay curious, build your network, and read job descriptions like you’re preparing to write your own.”
  She added, “In the breakout rooms, I got to hear what participants are up against—how to break through with LinkedIn messages, pitch transferable skills, and navigate a tough job market. I loved brainstorming alongside them.”
  
  

• Susan Trammell, who joined virtually, reminded attendees that power comes from humility. A self-described late bloomer, she emphasized that the most valued people in any workplace aren’t the loudest, but often those who make others feel heard and capable.
  
  

• Teresa Low reflected on cross-cultural learning and prioritizing team wellbeing.
  “I don’t want to burn out. I don’t want my team to burn out.”
  After the event, she shared: “I always walk away from these interactions feeling energized. Everyone came ready to grow. Our paths were different, but what connected us was curiosity and a belief in ourselves.”
  

From the Room: Reflections from Mentees & Mentors

Audience members didn’t just listen—they shared, reflected, and connected:

“I always try to do everything alone. But I learned I don’t have to.”
“Hearing someone talk about switching careers at 45 made me feel like I’m not behind.”
“The energy in this room made me feel seen. Everyone here was encouraging, thoughtful. I haven’t felt that in a while.”

Arbine Ryan, Queens College, reflected:
“I always thought that I was alone in the workplace and didn't have any colleagues to speak to but I learned that there are wonderful colleagues in the workplace to speak with, share your opinions and ask for help when it's needed. I struggled to ask for help but then realized to get out of my fear and ask when things were not going as planned.”

Kazi Lee, added:

“As a 25-year-old Finance major struggling to break into the field, I’ve been facing the harsh reality of starting to network too late—waiting until senior year didn’t work. At the event, Kevin really stood out to me. In just a brief conversation, he said something that stuck with me: ‘It’s never too late to rectify your mistakes, and it’s important to always be adaptive to the situation you’re going to face.’ Hearing how he pursued his masters later in life—and the way he carried himself with positivity and leadership—was inspiring. It made me want to develop that same mindset and presence.”

Tisha Lawson, Paramount, shared:
“Think about something you’d do—or a place you’d go—without worrying about getting paid. Whatever that is: go do it. That’s where your true passion lies.”

A Hub for the Whole City — and a Stronger Partnership

This event was just the beginning of a deeper collaboration between The City Tutors and The HOPE Program. We’re excited to launch our first Express Stop—a permanent, in-person tutoring and mentorship site—right here at HOPE.

Why it Matters:
New York has no shortage of resources, but access isn’t always easy—especially for those navigating GED prep, language learning, career changes, or unconventional paths. The Express Stop at HOPE is designed to change that.

Just as express subway stops serve the entire city—not just their local neighborhood—this site is built to support anyone eligible who needs guidance.

Here’s What This Partnership Will Offer:

• Free 1:1 tutoring and mentorship in GED prep, ESL, and skill-building
  

• Career mentorship events tailored to learners not currently enrolled in college
  

• On-site support available select weekdays from 9 AM – 5 PM, with plans to grow
  

• Priority access to HOPE’s job training and placement services for all participants
  
  

While not a drop-in center, learners can request a tutor or mentor through The City Tutors website and select in-person support at this location. Once matched, they’ll receive structured, personalized guidance—and entry into a broader learning community.

We’re proud to build this together—with and for the community.