Mentoring Program Testimonial: Elizabeth Goncalvez

Discover Elizabeth's experience with our Mentoring Program

To start, can you tell us what brought you to the FACC Midwest Chicago?

Elisabeth Goncalves:
One of the key factors that gave us confidence in our decision to relocate was the presence of FACC Midwest Chicago. Even before our journey began, we felt reassured knowing we could rely on a trusted and well-established organization.

Having a competent team on the ground, people who understand both the local job market and the realities of expatriation from France, has been an incredible asset. We're truly grateful for their support.

Which service did you use?

Elisabeth:
I joined the Mentoring program.

In simple terms, what did the Chamber help you with?

Elisabeth:
They supported me through every step of my job search. That included preparing applications, building a prospecting strategy, getting ready for interviews, and ultimately signing a job offer.

It wasn’t just general advice. It was structured, strategic, and adapted to my situation as a newcomer. I always felt like there was someone next to me who understood both who I am and how hiring really works here.

What did the process look like from your side?

Elisabeth:
There was a clear action plan, with regular check-ins that kept me moving forward, but it never felt rigid or stressful. I appreciated having access to one-on-one guidance whenever I needed it, and being able to ask very specific questions.

The approach was personalized and realistic. It wasn’t, “Here’s a template, good luck.” It was, “Here’s how you tell your story in a way that works in the U.S. market.”

You also mentioned group sessions. How did those help?

Elisabeth:
The small-group discussions between mentees and mentors were honestly one of the most valuable parts.

It created a supportive environment where we could share real experiences, what’s hard, what’s confusing, what’s different culturally, and get insight from people who’ve already navigated it.

For me, that sense of “You’re not alone in this” was a turning point. It gave me both motivation and clarity.

Let’s talk about outcomes. What changed for you in a tangible way?

Elisabeth:
The first big shift was redefining my professional path for the U.S. market. That started with a complete overhaul of my resume. It ended up looking nothing like the traditional French format and that difference matters here.

That transformation didn’t come from YouTube videos or generic LinkedIn advice. It came from expert guidance that you simply cannot find online.

I was also introduced to tools and resources I didn’t know about before, and they turned out to be extremely effective for job search and positioning.

On a more personal level: this wasn’t just about getting a job. It was about making a professional, personal, and family project real and doing it in a calm, reassuring environment.

If you had to summarize what you appreciated most, what would you say?

Elisabeth:
Competence with empathy.

The team knows the local market. They understand expatriation. They understand career identity. And they’re present. That combination gave me confidence at a time when everything else was new.