Never a Bad Day | Nick’s Story
Published January 29, 2025
With a spring in his step and a smile on his face, Nick emerged from Kowalski’s backroom while tying his apron. He has worked at the Kowalski’s on Grand Avenue for 16 years. Prior to his current position, he worked at a variety of places; however, there was just something special about the Kowalski’s on Grand Avenue.
Before joining Merrick, he was enrolled in a program focused on tradition and independence, where he honed essential life skills. This preparation helped him become more confident in his abilities in the workplace. Through his social worker, Nick learned about Merrick and found himself drawn to the diverse array of work opportunities. After starting in bagging and recycling, he eventually transitioned into an attendant role at Panda Express, where his responsibilities included sweeping, cleaning, and occasionally shoveling snow.
Nick later transitioned into a role at Kowalski’s in Woodbury but then switched to the one on Grand Avenue after finding out that it was much closer to home. Little did he know that this move would allow him to find community and foster relationships with the employees and store managers.
Nick has found fulfillment in every job he has held, although his path has not been without difficulties. He recalls a time when he worked as a dishwasher. His co-workers and supervisors would occasionally tell him that he was doing a poor job, and this made him feel discouraged. However, Nick’s resilience helped him power through, and he never let it impact his day. Even though the amount of criticism was troublesome, Nick remained motivated to learn and grow. His determination allowed him to rise above negativity and continue to pursue his goals.
As his Job Coach Zym would say, Nick is a “great person to be around and you can never have a bad day with him.” From the minute he walks into the room, a conversation is sparked, and you will be left either smiling or laughing. According to Zym, “He knows what to say to make people laugh.”
Nick hopes to continue working at Kowalski’s to achieve his future goals. Personally, he aims to save money for a trip to visit his cousins in Colorado. Professionally, he strives to become the assistant store manager at Kowalski’s. This goal sparked from a conversation with his current store manager who told Nick that because of his work ethic, he could envision him in a managerial position. However, his dream job would be working in sports, specifically in helping or becoming an assistant coach for the Gopher women’s basketball team or the MN Aurora, a women’s soccer club based in Eagan, Minnesota.
Fueled by hard work and a passion for making someone’s day, Nick continues to brighten the lives of those around him. Whether it is through his warm smile, a kind word, or a helpful gesture, Nick’s positivity radiates throughout the store and will continue to do so for years to come.