From Client Care Coordinator to Law School
In a heartfelt interview, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Simi KalKat, a Client Care Coordinator at Classic LifeCare, as she prepares for an exciting new chapter in her life. Simi shared her personal experiences, challenges, and reflections on her time at Classic LifeCare over the past 18 months.
Why did the Client Care Coordinator position at Classic LifeCare appeal to you?
There were limited career prospects for me after I completed a paralegal program. I stumbled upon a job application for a Client Care Coordinator at Classic LifeCare which seemed to align closely with my values and personal experiences.
At that time, my grandmother was living with Alzheimer’s disease so I recognized the importance of this role. The work of a Client Care Coordinator is meaningful and fulfilling, which was what I was searching for. When I arrived at the office for my interview, I was attracted to the positive energy and friendly faces, it was such a welcoming environment. I instantly knew this was the place for me.
Responsibilities of a Client Care Coordinator
As a Client Care Coordinator, my role varies each day. I answer phone calls from our field employees and clients, helping and advising them about different situations. I also match healthcare workers and clients, considering their needs, skillset, and personalities so that it is a good partnership. Being a coordinator at Classic LifeCare helped me grow both personally and professionally. Listening to other people’s situations really made me open my eyes and change my perspective on life. I became more grateful for all the good things in my life.
What does Classic LifeCare mean to you?
What I will miss most is coming to work and being with my friends. At Classic, our interactions don’t stop when we leave the office at 4.30pm. We are very involved in each other’s lives and are constantly interacting. The office is always filled with laughter. Every day, I look forward to lunchtime and conversations with my colleagues. They are some of my closest friends and are always there to support me.
I also love talking to our clients and listening to their wild and crazy stories. I love their wisdom and hearing about their lived experience. We are so lucky to have such kind and inspirational clients.
Did anyone at Classic LifeCare influence you?
There are so many people who made a positive impact on my life. However, the person who was the greatest influence on me was Yvette, our Executive Leader. While I respected Yvette’s role as the Leader of Classic LifeCare, I never felt that there was a hierarchy structure where I couldn’t talk to the leaders. In Classic, everyone is friends and open to communication, no matter what your role is.
Yvette was my first friend in Classic. Over the 18 months, she gave me great personal and professional advice. I saw her as a second mom, and we talked about everything. When she was away, I also used to raid her chocolate drawer, I will miss the endless supply of treats too!
I’m also grateful for how involved owners John and Susanne Sherwood are in Classic LifeCare. They try to get to know everyone and open their home for activities like the summer BBQ. I think they set a great example for the Classic culture.
What is next for you?
I will be moving to London in August. I enrolled in a 3-year Law program at the University of East London to further my legal studies. My goal is to become a Human Rights Political Lawyer in the future and help others in a different way. I am excited about this new journey!
Want to join the Classic family? View our current job openings.