Spotlight on Success: Robert Senzig

Robert Senzig is a dishwasher and food prep worker at Grandma Bellisio's Italian restaurant in Duluth, MN, where he has worked since May 2006. He has severe anxiety and depression.

Before he got his current job, Senzig worked on a moving crew. He received some training at The Employment Connection where he learned to reassess his goals, learned communication skills and how to recognize his limits. He searched want ads in the newspaper, and on the Internet to find job openings.

Senzig gets satisfaction from knowing he can help others, from doing a good job, and from just being able to work. "Working gives me a sense of self-confidence," he says.

Co-workers understand that Senzig is a hard worker and gets things done. He gets along well with others and enjoys his work.

With many goals for his future, Senzig wants to attend college, get married and have a couple of kids, buy a car, and eventually get a job in the clerical field five or six years down the road.

Getting this job has had a very positive impact on Senzig's life. He's lost 50 pounds; he's making a decent wage, and feels like he's accomplishing something.

To people with disabilities who are looking for a job, Senzig says, "Never give up! Try to get as much help as you can getting the job you want, and don't let anyone cut you down mentally. People will try to do that, but you can't let them."