Francis's journey highlights a significant shift in the U.S. labor market, where white-collar hiring has slowed, pushing many, including those with advanced degrees, to consider careers in more in-demand sectors like healthcare. After obtaining her MBA and a graduate certificate in human resources management from DeVry University in October 2023, Francis found herself in a frustrating job search. Despite her prior two decades of professional experience in Jamaica, where she managed student services at a vocational training organization, her recent work experience in the U.S.—including roles as a Lyft driver, contact tracer, and customer service representative, alongside informal caregiving—didn't align with the HR positions she was seeking.
"I'm basically starting over — that's the part that bothers me," Francis said, acknowledging the difficult reality of her situation. She received some government assistance for food and rent, but it wasn't enough to prevent her from falling into a deeper financial hole.
A New Path in Healthcare
In June, Francis completed a six-week, 90-hour certified nursing assistant (CNA) training program, which cost her approximately $1,900. She successfully passed the state exam, earning her CNA license. This move was a direct response to the robust hiring in the healthcare sector, a stark contrast to the stagnant growth in many other industries. Economists like Cory Stahle from the Indeed Hiring Lab have noted that "if you're not a teacher, if you're not a nurse, and you're not a doctor, you're not seeing those opportunities" in the current job market.
Francis's decision was influenced by the clear demand she observed. "When I went on Indeed, I saw many, many jobs," she stated, reinforcing her confidence in finding employment in the field. A nurse acquaintance also assured her she'd "never been out of work."
Hope for the Future
Francis is optimistic about her new career path. She recently interviewed for a position at a long-term care facility and has signed up for freelance nursing apps like Clipboard Health and Shiftmed. While her immediate goal is to secure a nursing role to alleviate her financial stress, she ultimately hopes to leverage her MBA and previous experience in healthcare training or administrative positions.
"The uncertainty of how long this joblessness will continue is extremely stressful," Francis admitted. "But I believe that once given an opportunity, I will rise above my current situation." Her story is a testament to the resilience of individuals navigating a challenging economic landscape and the growing importance of adaptability in career planning.