Guided by Mentorship: Tarra’s Path to Success and a Future in Healthcare

Tarra Hough faced significant challenges as she navigated her high school journey. Struggling with the traditional school model, she needed support to stay on track academically while also figuring out how to pursue a meaningful career. She aspired to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) but faced uncertainty in finding a program that would fit her schedule, provide hands-on experience, and open doors to the healthcare field.

Everything began to change when Tarra joined the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program through Michigan Works! Southwest. Through JMG, Tarra found more than just support—she found a mentor in Rachel Spalvieri-Kruse, her JMG specialist, who believed in her potential and helped her map out a clear path toward her goals. Together, they created a plan to apply for the CNA training program at Bronson Commons in Mattawan, working through every step of the process from interview preparation to application paperwork. Rachel also introduced Tarra to a local scholarship opportunity, guiding her through the application and providing a strong recommendation letter.

A turning point came when Tarra interviewed for the CNA paid training-to-hire program at Bronson Commons. With her preparation and Rachel’s guidance, she earned a spot in the program, giving her the chance to gain real-world experience while continuing her education. Around the same time, Tarra was also awarded the YOU Scholarship and proudly walked across the stage at the April 2025 award ceremony to celebrate her achievement.

Tarra’s dedication, perseverance, and focus have been remarkable. While completing her high school diploma and working part-time at Harding’s Market, she successfully balanced multiple responsibilities and made steady progress toward her career goals. Today, she is thriving at Bronson Commons, preparing to take her CNA certification exam, and building the foundation for a long-term career in healthcare.

Reflecting on her journey, Tarra shared, “The JMG program changed my life for the better. My JMG specialist Rachel guided me every step of the way to becoming a CNA—from building confidence to working toward getting certified. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I wouldn’t have done it without their guidance!”

Tarra’s story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of mentorship. Through her commitment and the support of JMG, she transformed challenges into opportunities and is creating a bright, successful future in healthcare.