Hi Victor. Thanks for joining us on the blog. What's it like to be a student in the Information Technology program at Green River?
Victor: Being a
student in the Information Technology program was a scary and exciting
feeling at the same time. Throughout
the time I've been in the IT program here at Green River, it's been one
the best experiences in my life. The IT instructors are very knowledgeable, using their years of collective experience in the information technology field and sharing
it with students, which is a major advantage, versus just getting information out
of a book. Plus, they give hands-on instruction that familiarizes students with computer
hardware and software issues in order to hone troubleshooting skills. The
other advantage that I felt the Green River's IT program provides, is virtual
machines for students to get familiar with the different types of operating
systems that are available, which gives a you an advantage of being
prepared. I really do believe that you get your money's worth here
at Green River's Information Technology program. I was able to complete my AAS degree in IT Networking in Fall quarter 2012, and I'm going to complete my AAS degree in IT Computer Support Specialist at the end of Winter quarter 2013.
Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field?
Victor: Here is a little background information
what lead me to choose information technology. I initially came to
Green River to get my GED in the Fall of 2010, and at the same
time take classes to become in interpreter, but soon found out
the Green River didn't offer any of these types
of classes. I soon felt that I didn't know what I really
wanted to study. As I got close to completing my GED,
I started looking in the winter schedule to
see if Green River offered any type of classes for computer
repair. I met Gus Gomez, an IT instructor, and he explained the types
of IT degrees the Green River offered and shortly after that he
mapped out my class schedule from beginning to end.
You've already earned one IT degree and you're about to complete a second. Two degrees, wow! What are your future plans?
Victor: My
plans for the future are to continue pursuing my Bachelors degree in Networking
and possibly later on a degree in Business Management. Recently, I just
got hired as IT support for a company in Tukwila and it's a great feeling that
this is just the beginning of my career.
What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing training in the field of Information Technology?
Victor: I
would say to new students: Apply yourself in the class environment. The
instructors are there to teach you, as well as to learn
from students. IT certifications are also important in getting a job because
employers are looking for candidates who have certifications.
It demonstrates to potential employers that you took time to go
beyond just taking the class and really understand the
concepts.
$$$ Tip! The following Workforce Education funding programs support IT training pathways at Green River: BFET, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst.
