Teen With Down Syndrome Gets The Phone Call She’s Been Waiting For, She Flips Out Afterwards

Teenagers are usually ready, when they hit 15 or 16, to get their first job.  It’s a right of passage into adulthood teaching them what it means to be a productive adult in today’s society.  For most it is the first time they will do something independently from their parents. The biggest reason is that the get to earn their OWN money!

Julia Hock of Elk Grove, California was super excited to land her first job.  This teenager might even be more excited, Julia has Down Syndrome, but she’s never let that keep her from crushing her goals.
 Julia at age seventeen has surpassed the standards that the medical community places on kids with special needs.  She is on the varsity cheer squad.  During little league season she helps run the concession stand.  People look for her cheerful smile and uplifting attitude.

Julia told her mom she wanted an official job – specifically she wanted to work at Chic Fila.  Julia’s friends and guidance counselor pitched in to get her ready for the interview.

“Several kids at school wrote unsolicited letters of recommendation for her,” said Julia’s mom, Kerri Bass Hock, “and a couple of other kids helped her choose outfits and drove her to the interview.”Kerri says Julia would be perfectly suited to working at the restaurant. “She’s very friendly and very sociable. The person that loves the unlovable.”

After a second interview process she waited…

Mom caught the moment on video and shared it on Facebook with this caption:

“Julia Hock is a working woman! After two interviews, lots of interview practice with her teachers, and team of her friends helping her pick outfits and putting in a good word-Juj was hired. So proud of our girl!”

“I’m hired!” Julia says happily.

Kerri even shared a photo of Julia on her first day at the new job.

Congratulations, Julia! Watch her awesome reaction to the good news below, and don’t forget to share!