Sana Fatima graduated from United Way’s Early Learning Career Launch (ELCL) program in October 2025. Since then, she has been working as a Pre-K Teaching Assistant at Woodbrook Elementary School. A mother and immigrant from Pakistan, Sana shares how ELCL has set her up to gain the necessary experience in America that she needs to accomplish her longer-term professional goals.
What were you doing before ELCL? Why did you decide to participate in the program?
Before ELCL, I had been working in education and teaching English in Pakistan. After moving to the U.S., I wanted to understand the local education system and gain experience in an American classroom. ELCL seemed like a good opportunity to begin that transition.
Could you share how your overall experience has been since graduating from ELCL?
It has been a good experience. I am now working as a Pre-K Teaching Assistant at Woodbrook Elementary School. ELCL helped me feel more prepared for working in a U.S. school and gave me practical experience that I could use in the classroom.
What has your relationship been like with United Way throughout your ELCL journey?
United Way has been supportive throughout the program. They helped provide the training and resources I needed, and I appreciated having that support during my transition into the U.S. education system.
Looking at pre-ELCL and post-ELCL, what have been the most notable changes for you?
The biggest change has been having actual experience in a U.S. school. Before ELCL, I was still figuring out how to continue my career here. Now I have a better understanding of the school environment and what direction I want to take professionally.
What are your professional long-term goals now?
My long-term goal is to work as an ESL teacher in Virginia. I want to continue building my qualifications and eventually pursue the licensure and ESL endorsement needed to work with English language learners.