Leah S.

If you're thinking about a career change or starting fresh in a new job, Virginia Beach Public Library (VBPL) provides free resources that can help! You'll find thousands of courses offered online through our digital library, plus live coaching, both virtual and in-person.

Volunteer career coaches are available at the Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library, offering resume help, assistance with online job applications, interview preparation and more. Ralph Volk has been a career coach with VBPL since 2016. 

With over 35 years of experience as a hiring manager, he has reviewed thousands of resumes, and interviewed and hired hundreds of employees during his career. Volk recently worked with Leah S. to create a professional resume that would highlight her skills and give her a solid foundation for a job search. Their collaboration led to a job offer for Leah, and her kind note of thanks:

"Ralph, I wanted to let you know that I accepted a position as a Communications Specialist with Heartland Dental, the largest dental support organization in the country. This is the first job I have ever landed with a company where I didn't know anyone and had to rely on the strength of my resume and interview without an insider putting in a good word for me. 

This job checked all the boxes I was looking for and I am thrilled to start with them next month. Thank you so much for your help with my resume; I believe I would not have been considered for this position without your help!! Your volunteer service with the city has made a difference in my life and I wanted to thank you.

With gratitude,

Leah S."

Career coaching is for every age and stage of life – whether you're just getting started after graduation, making a career change or getting back into the job market after taking time off. If you'd like to meet with one of VBPL's career coaches, call (757) 385-0150 to make an appointment.