When Donna Crawford got divorced 12 years ago, she lost
more than a husband. She was the office manager at her husband's
family business for over 15 years. When she and her husband
split up, she left her job because it was too uncomfortable.
Donna and her daughter moved in with Donna's sister.
She looked for jobs in every newspaper she could get her
hands on. She wasn't interested in administrative
jobs. Donna wanted to work with people.
A regular check-up at the eye doctor made her decide to
study to become an optician. She knew she would be good
at helping customers, fitting them for eyeglasses and contact
lenses, and ordering glasses and lenses for them. Her eye
doctor thought it was a good idea and gave her tips on how
to get started.
Opticians learn most of their skills through on-the-job
training. Donna visited all the opticians in her area. Instead
of just leaving her resume on their desks, she asked to
speak with someone in each office. She explained that she
was looking for a career as an optician and asked if they
had any openings.
She didn't have any luck on her first round of visits.
She waited a few weeks and made follow-up calls. This time
she got lucky – there was an opening at an office
and they remembered her! Donna's been working in the
field for five years now and really enjoys her job.
Now Donna's working in the eye care department at
a local department store. She has a good salary and benefits.
"The work is part medical technician and part fashion
designer," Donna says. "I help customers choose
the best options for their needs. I also give them advice
on what looks good on them. I like helping people see and
look good at the same time!"
Donna
Crawford
