A New Chapter: How One Hilda Reclaimed Her Confidence with Dress for Success
“The support from Dress for Success lifted a huge weight off my shoulders, and even my kids noticed the difference. They saw me standing taller, smiling more, and carrying myself with a new sense of hope," Hilda, Dress for Success San Francisco client
Before seeking assistance from Dress for Success, Hilda's journey was filled with both growth and challenges. As a full-time Medical Assistant student, she dedicated most of her time and energy to succeeding academically, often juggling coursework, clinical hours, and personal responsibilities.
While she was determined to build a better future, she struggled financially, which made it difficult to afford professional clothing for interviews and career events. Hilda knew she had the skills and passion to succeed, but she lacked the resources to present herself confidently in professional settings. That’s when she turned to Dress for Success, seeking not just clothing, but support, encouragement, and a chance to truly step into the next chapter of her life.
"The support from Dress for Success lifted a huge weight off my shoulders, and even my kids noticed the difference. They saw me standing taller, smiling more, and carrying myself with a new sense of hope," Hilda shared. "It meant the world to me that they could feel that shift; like things were finally starting to move in the right direction. Dress for Success didn’t just prepare me for job interviews. It gave me the confidence to believe in a better future, not just for me, but for my entire family."
Hilda the opportunity to participate in both the Career Wardrobe and Financial Literacy programs offered by Dress for Success, and each one played a vital role in her personal and professional growth.
"The Career Wardrobe program gave me more than just professional clothing; it gave me the confidence to walk into interviews and career events feeling prepared and empowered," she said. "Wearing attire that made me look the part helped me feel the part, which boosted my self-esteem and helped me make strong first impressions.”
The Financial Literacy program was equally impactful. It taught Hilda how to better manage her money, plan for the future, and make informed financial decisions. As a full-time student and parent, those skills were invaluable. It helped relieve some of the financial stress she was carrying and gave her practical tools to build a more stable foundation for herself and her family.
Hilda recently landed an externship at UCSF, where she's gaining valuable hands-on experience.
"It’s been a great opportunity to apply what I’ve learned and build my skills in a real-world setting. I’m confident that this experience is preparing me well to transition into a full-time position. Even if I don’t land a job immediately, I know that this excellent program will continue to provide support and guidance as I advance in my career."
At Dress for Success San Francisco/San Jose, we don’t just provide clothing; we help women reclaim their confidence, rewrite their stories, and redefine what’s possible.