There are certain events in life that just seem to make a difference in the way that we hold our head up around others. Some of the events may include the day that we graduate, the day we get married and the day our first child is born. Many of us also remember a very special event in our lives, the day that we get our first job. It’s a sign of independence and for many of us, it’s a big step into an even bigger world.
We tend to look at our first job as being a step out into independence. It’s not necessarily that we want to completely be independent from our parents, but we do want to be self-sufficient. The responsibility that is associated with having a job also teaches us to be more productive members of society. That isn’t even to mention the fact that we will be earning a paycheck, so we will have cash in our hands.
Julia Hock, a young girl from Elk Grove, California, was excited about landing her first job. It probably meant more for her, however, because she has Down syndrome. One thing about Julia, however, is the fact that she never let a disability keep her from accomplishing what she wanted in life.
Julia had accomplished a lot by the time she was 17. She was a varsity cheerleader, runs a concession stand snack shop at a local park and she has gained the respect of many people in town.
Now that Julia is entering adulthood, she wanted something that many children her age wanted, a job. That is when she applied at the local Chick-fil-A. She had her school guidance counselor and friends help her prepare for the interview.
“Several kids at school wrote unsolicited letters of recommendation for her,” said Julia’s mom, Kerri Bass Hock, “and a couple of other kids helped her choose outfits and drove her to the interview.”
Kerry thinks Julia would be perfect for the restaurant. She said: “She’s very friendly and very sociable. The person that loves the unlovable.” Julie also went through two rounds of interviews and she was waiting for that call.
When she finally received a phone call, her mother caught it on video. She then posted it on Facebook with the caption:
“Julia Hock is a working woman! After two interviews, lots of interview practice with her teachers, and team of her friends helping her pick outfits and putting in a good word-Juj was hired. So proud of our girl!”
Julia said: “I’m hired!” It’s a beautiful moment.
You can even see a picture of Julia on her first day at Chick-fil-A. She looks like she’s doing quite well.
We are so happy for you Julia!
You can watch the video of the special moment below:
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