Ana joined MUA’s technology classes hoping to feel more confident using a computer. What she didn’t expect was how quickly those new skills would impact her family’s livelihood. Her husband and brother-in-law ran a small landscaping business, and with Ana’s help, it began to grow.

“Before MUA, I didn’t even know how to make a Word document. But the technology classes gave me skills I use every day now—designing flyers, posting on Facebook, even making logos and business cards. I helped rebrand our landscaping business and started managing the social media page. Now we’re getting more clients than ever. MUA gave me the power to support my family in a whole new way. I’m not just learning—I’m contributing.”

Fatima, a single mother of two, came to MUA while living in a shelter. She had limited English skills and no formal work experience in the U.S. But she had a dream: to create a better life for her family.

“Before I joined MUA’s program, I felt invisible. I didn’t speak the language, and I didn’t think anyone would hire me. But the English classes and Home Health Aide training at MUA gave me confidence—and a career. They even helped me with job interviews and connected me with an agency that hired me full-time. Now I can support my kids, and we just moved into our own apartment.”

Maria dropped out of high school to care for her younger siblings. Years later, as a mother herself, she knew she needed more to give her family a better future. MUA offered her a way forward—with no judgment.

“Coming back to school in my 30s was scary. But MUA made it possible. I started with English classes and computer workshops, and then completed the phlebotomy program. The support I received—connection to reduced-cost MBTA passes, free toiletries, and job placement help—meant I could focus on learning. Now, I’m working at a lab, and my daughter says she wants to be like me when she grows up.”

Nadège immigrated to Boston from Haiti several years after the 2010 earthquake uprooted her life. As a Haitian Creole speaker with limited English and no formal U.S. work experience, she struggled to find her footing. When she discovered MUA, everything began to shift. She started with English classes and eventually enrolled in the Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) training program.

“MUA understood what it meant to start over. The staff welcomed me with open arms, and I never felt judged. At first, I didn’t believe I could succeed in a professional program, but MUA provided the support I needed—language help, job readiness workshops, and so much encouragement. Today, I’m working full-time at a pediatric clinic where I can support families in both English and Creole. MUA helped me turn uncertainty into pride.”

Diego grew up in Boston after his family immigrated from El Salvador. He left high school at 17 to work full-time and help support his younger siblings. For years, he bounced between low-wage jobs, feeling like he had missed his chance. When he learned about MUA’s evening HiSET program, everything changed.

“I always wanted to finish school, but life kept getting in the way. MUA’s night classes gave me a second chance. I could still work during the day and study at night. The teachers really cared—they didn’t give up on me, even when I wanted to give up on myself. After I got my HiSET, MUA helped me build a resume and apply for better jobs. Now I’m working full-time as a dispatcher, and I’m finally able to help my family without feeling stuck. MUA gave me the tools—and the push—I needed.”