by StreetWise Partners
June 1, 2026

“I honestly didn’t know how I was going to find my first job without StreetWise.” 

Growing up in Brooklyn as the first college graduate in her immediate family, Sylvia always knew she wanted to build a successful career. But as a finance major at Baruch College nearing graduation in spring 2024, she felt overwhelmed and unsure about what path to pursue. 

“I was panicking,” Sylvia says. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do or how to find a full-time job.” 

Although she had gained work experience through nonprofit internships, Sylvia struggled with networking and lacked confidence in professional settings. Previous mentorship programs hadn’t worked out, and she worried she was falling behind. 

Everything changed when a friend connected her to StreetWise Partners.

Through the StreetWise Bridge Program, Sylvia was paired with Fernanda, who also went through StreetWise Partners Bridge program as a mentee and had now returned as a mentor. Fernanda’s consistent encouragement helped Sylvia step outside her comfort zone. 

“She was always there for me,” Sylvia says. “Even after the program ended, she kept checking in on me and helping me with networking, interviews, and professional communication. I’d never really experienced that kind of support from someone outside my family.” 

After the 13-week of programming, Sylvia was connected to StreetWise’s Talent Services team, which became a major turning point in her career journey. With guidance on resumes, interview preparation, and networking, Sylvia secured a full-time role through the Civil Service Pathways Fellowship at the New York City Comptroller’s Office. 

After more than a year in that role, Sylvia reconnected with StreetWise’s Talent Services team to prepare for her next career move. Once again, she worked closely with the team on interview preparation and applying for jobs at major companies. 

“They helped me build confidence to apply for opportunities I never thought I had a chance at,” she says. 

Today, Sylvia is beginning a new role as a Staff Accountant at SL Green and feels more confident than ever about her future. 

“StreetWise helped me at every stage of starting my career,” she says. “Without the mentors and Talent Services team, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” 

You can take the first step toward a brighter future.  Become a mentee today.