Her Story
About Ava
Ava Barca works in social services, where she has spent nearly four years. After two years handling food stamps, she was promoted to senior and moved to the foster care unit, where she now manages Title IVE reimbursement by analyzing cases to determine eligibility for federal or state funding. Barca previously worked at a law office before entering social services. She holds an associate's degree in business administration and continues her education toward a bachelor's degree, which she funds through her full-time role and a restaurant job. Barca attributes her success to growing up in a single-parent household and wanting to achieve independence while helping others in similar situations. She emphasizes values of empathy, compassion, honesty, and loyalty, and advises young women entering the field to remain confident despite initial intimidation.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ava
01What do you attribute your success to?
I grew up very poor in a single parent household, and I really wanted to make something of myself. I wanted to have money and not have to rely on anyone, never have to rely on a man. My mom had to be on food stamps for a short period of time, so working at social services, I kind of felt like I'm helping people that were in a similar situation to me growing up.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Love what you do. It makes it a lot easier.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't let it scare you. Everyone's super nice. When you first meet people, especially men, it might seem intimidating, but if you're just confident and walk in thinking that you're capable and smart, just be confident. That's how I tried to come into here because I was one of the youngest people to work here when I started and it was definitely intimidating, but I was like, oh, well, they hired me, so I guess I deserve to be here.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Sometimes I feel cooped up in the office a lot, trying to stay motivated. A lot of the work is analyzing foster care cases which can make you sick to your stomach or take a mental toll, even though I'm not a caseworker. It's hard to come home and talk about your day. Also, working full-time means I don't get aid so I have to pay for college myself while also working at a restaurant.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy, compassion, honesty, loyalty.
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