Student Success Profile: Jenny S

Today's success profile features a Q and A with Jenny S., a Workforce Education student who is enrolled in one of Green River's more popular and demanding programs - Practical Nursing. Jenny provides a compelling inside look at what it means to be a nursing student. Check out her story below.

Hi Jenny. What is it like being a student in Green River's Practical Nursing program?

Jenny: It is like having two full-time jobs! One being in school on campus, and the other all the hours studying.

Can you briefly tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field?

Jenny: I have always wanted to be a nurse and after being laid off, I thought it was the perfect time to pursue my dream.

How has Workforce Education helped you towards completing your goals?

Jenny: Workforce Education has been there for me since day one! It is a hard road to navigate from being employed full-time and transitioning to a full-time student. Since I was laid off I applied for Training Benefits (additional weeks of UI benefits) through the Employment Security Department. I didn't know where to start, but I was fortunate in having Workforce Education on my side during the process. In the beginning, I was emailing, calling, and going into their office about once a week! And every time I was helped and guided in the right direction. I will forever be grateful as I know this is a difficult path to navigate alone.

What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing Practical Nursing training at Green River?

Jenny: I would say go for it! Make the commitment to yourself and stick to it no matter what. It is hard and for two years school will be your life, but it will be worth it in the end. I will finally have a college education, working as a nurse and doing what I love.

$$$ Tip! All four Workforce Education funding programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst - support Practical Nursing training at Green River.       

Student Success Profile: Elsie Quitevis

Elsie Quitevis

Today's success profile features a Q and A with Elsie Quitevis. Elsie is a Workforce Education student who is enrolled in the Administrative Assistant program at Green River. She's completed multiple certificates and is now setting her sights on a career in the Administrative Assistant field. Check out her story below.

Hi Elsie. Thanks for joining us on the blog. What is it like being a student in the Administrative Assistant program at Green River?

Elsie: First of all, I would like to thank the entire Workforce Education family at GRCC for their assistance and for giving me the opportunity to go back to school. Being in this program has been a very fulfilling experience. I learned a lot from my instructors and I have met different kinds of students with different nationalities and backgrounds.

Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field of study?

Elsie: I worked for two years as a production worker, but because of the economic crisis I was laid off due to lack of work. I tried searching for a job for a couple of months but received no response. I tried to apply for clerical positions but they required experience. While I have 20 years of experience as a government employee, that was in my country, which I can't apply here. I went to WorkSource. My trainer there asked me if I would like to go to school with no expenses and so opportunity knocked on my door and I grabbed it right away. WorkSource directed me to go to Workforce Education at GRCC to inquire about their programs and they accommodated me. Now, I'm pursuing my final Administrative Assistant certificate and hopefully will finish at the end of the spring quarter, 2013. Once again, thank you Workforce Education!

You're completed multiple Administrative Assistant-related certificates. Congrats! What are your plans after graduation?

Elsie: Thank you. My plans after graduation are to apply for a job and, if hired, to save money to support my two kids for their schooling.

What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing training in a similar field of study?

Elsie: My advice for them is to study hard because for me, education is the greatest foundation in a person's life, and it is also the key to success. Another piece of advice is, if they need funding assistance for their schooling, go to Workforce Education at GRCC and they will embrace you and lend a helping hand with open hearts.

$$$ Tip! All four Workforce Education funding programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst, - support Administrative Assistant training at Green River.

Student Success Profile: Victor Santoyo

Today's student success profile features a Q and A with Victor Santoyo. Victor is a Workforce Education student who originally came to Green River to earn his GED. Now, he's wrapping up dual degrees in Information Technology. Victor's education, combined with his commitment to excellence, helped him land an IT-support job at a local company. Check out the story of his success below!

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.  

Math Learning Center: Adrienne Palmer

Adrienne Palmer

Today's post features a Q and A with math guru Adrienne Palmer. Adrienne has been working as an adjunct math instructor at Green River since 1995, and has coordinated the college's Math Learning Center since 2000. Her message to students struggling with math? Take advantage of tutoring services in the Math Learning Center, ask lots of questions, and make a point of going to class EVERY day. Check out our conversation below!

Hi Adrienne. Thanks for joining us on the blog. You coordinate the Math Learning Center, which offers an array of free, math-related services to Green River students. Can you provide a short overview of services?

Adrienne: Probably the most utilized service the Math Learning Center offers is our drop-in peer tutoring. We have both student and community members who value education and offer their time to help out our students.  In addition to the tutoring, students are able to rent calculators for the quarter, and to check out any current math textbook and some solutions manuals for an hour or so. If a student has forgotten their calculator on an exam day, they can borrow one from us while they take their exam.

You've worked as a math instructor at Green River since 1995; as such, you have a solid understanding of what factors contribute to student success. What are some practical steps students can take to be more successful in their math classes?

Adrienne: I always tell my students that if they want to succeed in my math classes, they really need to make a point of going to class every day.  Even missing one day of class will set a student behind.  To become successful in math, you need to go to class EVERY day, listen well and take notes, look over your notes, do the homework problems on the day it is assigned (don’t wait until the day before it’s due – by then you may already have forgotten how to do most of the problems), and don’t be afraid of asking questions.  Once you get familiar enough with the problems, you start realizing that most of math has a pattern to it.  

On a more personal note, what do you like most about teaching math?

Adrienne: I love explaining  math problems to students and seeing that light bulb go off in their heads. It’s very rewarding to have a student make all the connections and see the big picture.  Also, I just love being in  the classroom and sharing my knowledge with them.  I like walking around the room and seeing my students working collaboratively on problems. Being in the classroom gives me an energy boost that takes me through my day. 

The Math Tutoring Center is located in the BI building, rooms 5 and 6. You can find hours of operation and a detailed overview of services by visiting the MLC on the web.

Student Success Profile: Roberta Marta

Today's student success profile features a brief Q and A with Roberta Marta. Roberta is a Workforce Education student who is enrolled in the Accounting program at Green River. Training in this field enhanced Roberta's project management background. In fact, she started a new job last month as a project manager with a local company. Check out her story below!

Hi Roberta. Thanks for joining us on the blog. Can you tell us what it's like to be a student in the Accounting program at Green River?

Roberta: It has been a very fulfilling experience being in the Accounting program. Being laid off due to economic conditions was quite a struggle, but being able to work and improve my skill set within a professional environment was a big part of my success. My training gave me confidence in obtaining a new job. The instructors strive to help students reach their goals and get the most out of each course.

Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field of study?

Roberta: I chose the Accounting field to better enhance the project management background I have. All of the classes have been very applicable to my skill set and have aided me in my current job field. I started a new job about a month ago as a project manager with Potelco Inc.

What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing training in a similar field of study?

Roberta: I would highly recommend that others pursue similar training. I feel that Green River is a great place to freshen up skills or enhance the skill set you already have. In particular, the Accounting program is very applicable to many different career paths.

 $$$ Tip! All four Workforce Education funding programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, WorkFirst - support Accounting pathways at Green River.    

Student Success Profile: Melinda Harvey

Today's student success profile features a brief Q and A with Melinda Harvey. Melinda is a Workforce Education student who is enrolled in the Business Management program at Green River. She's nearing completion of her degree but her adventure's just beginning. Check out her story below!

Melinda Harvey

Hi Melinda. Can you tell us what it's like to be a student in the Business Management program at Green River?

Melinda: I enjoyed being a student here at Green River Community College. I can tell you that I had to press my way through classes, working forty hours a week and raising four children. It was hard but I did it. I enjoyed Jeff Perlot and Tim Broxholm (Business faculty members at Green River). They are wonderful teachers, mentors, and they really go the extra mile to help you succeed.

Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field of study?

Melinda: I chose Business Management because I always knew that I would publish books and run my own business. So I had a strong desire to learn how to be the best at running a business.

It looks like you're nearing completion of your Business Management degree. Congrats! What are your plans after graduation?

Melinda: I have just published my first book called, "Loosed to Live: A Reflection of God's Healing." I will be attending Northwest University in Spring 2014, completing a business BA then a Masters in Entrepreneurship. I will also publish the four more books that I have started.

$$$ Tip: All four Workforce Education funding programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst - support Business Management at Green River. 

Student Success Profile: Chris Santiago

Chris Santiago

Today's success profile features a Q and A with Chris Santiago. Chris is a Workforce Education student who is wrapping up a certificate in the Aviation program at Green River Community College. Below, he provides an informative take on what it means to be a student in the Aviation program, here at the college.             
                                                                    
Hi Chris. Welcome to the blog. What specifically are you studying, here at Green River?

Chris: I am studying Airline Dispatch in the Aviation program here at GRCC.

Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field of study?

Chris: I was employed in the aviation field for 8+ years before being laid off in the fall of 2011. After an unsuccessful job search lasting several months - in which I continuously received the response that if I had a dispatchers license with my work experience, my chances of obtaining employment would be greatly increased - I researched my options. I found that GRCC had a very reputable Aviation department with real work experienced instructors. Those factors made enrolling at GRCC for my education toward certification a no brainer.

It looks like you're getting ready to finish your certificate. Congrats! What are your plans after that?

Chris: I will graduate from my certification program and be very prepared to pass my FAA dispatcher practical exam and obtain my license. This will hopefully allow me to become gainfully employed shortly thereafter. I am hoping to continue school to finish my Associate of Applied Science degree in Airline Dispatch and possibly the same in Air Transportation.

What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing training in a similar field of study?

Chris: I would say if you are looking for an aviation education that will translate to the real world work place, GRCC is by far your best option locally, and in my opinion, anywhere. I would also definitely say make sure you talk to Workforce Education about funding even if you don't think you qualify. They can help in many ways to make things go smoothly and make sense.

$$$ Tip! All four Workforce Education funding programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst - support Aviation training at Green River.  

Student Success Profile: Genie Loteria

Today's post spotlights the inspirational story of Genie Loteria. Genie is a Workforce Education student who is pursuing Business Education training at Green River. She is nearing completion of multiple certificates in her field of study. In spite of the obstacles, Genie pressed forward and made her dreams become a reality. Check out the story of her success below! Like Genie says, you can do anything you put your mind to.

Hi Genie. Thanks so much for joining us on the blog. Can you tell us what you're studying at Green River?

Genie: I am under the Business Education Certificate Program at Green River. I am currently on my final quarter, taking up Records Management to earn my final certificate for File Clerk. I have already finished and earned three certificates, namely: Accounting Clerk, Data Entry, and Office Support. 

Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue training in this field?

Genie: When I immigrated here from the Philippines, I had planned to rejoin the workforce as an accounting or administrative assistant. However, I found it difficult to find a job because of my lack of experience here in the U.S., as well as necessary training in computers and current business practices. I realized that in order for me to be able to work in the fields I am interested in, I needed to take the necessary steps to equip myself with computer skills, as well as brush up on business and accounting skills and knowledge, so I decided that going back to school would give me what I needed. Workforce Education at Green River was VERY instrumental in allowing me to go back to school, and I'm very grateful for all the assistance I received and continue to receive.

You're getting ready to graduate with multiple certificates. Congrats! What types of jobs will you be applying for after graduation?

Genie: Thank you. I really would like to start a career in accounting, particularly payroll, so I will be applying for accounting assistant, payroll assistant, or administrative assistant types of positions.

What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing training in a similar field of study?

Genie: My advice for them is to move forward with obtaining a good education despite the difficulties. I am in my early sixties, new to the country, and have a medical condition that made it difficult for me to hear, and I really thought I wouldn't be able to go back to school, but I have persevered and now I am almost done. I have gained the necessary skills I need to pursue a career that I want and most importantly, I have gained confidence in myself that I can do anything I set my mind to.

$$$ Tip! All four Workforce Education funding programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst - support Business Education training at Green River.

     

Student Success Profile: Michelle Parrott

Today's Student Success Profile features a brief Q and A with Michelle Parrott. Michelle is a Workforce Education student who is enrolled in one of Green River's most popular (and competitive) programs: Physical Therapist Assistant. In the post below, she provides an insightful take on what it means to be a PTA student.

Hi Michelle, thanks for joining us on the blog. To start, what's it like being a student in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Green River?

Michelle: I love being a student in the PTA program here at Green River. The professors are amazing and the program is constantly evolving to keep up with the growing field. We cover so much in a two year time period. I feel much more prepared for the real world than I did with my original Bachelor's degree. We also spend so much time together as a cohort, it's like one big family. I am very happy that I made the decision to go back to school. This is a great program!

Can you tell us the story of how you decided to pursue a degree in this field of study?

Michelle: My original degree was in Exercise Science, specializing in corporate fitness. Unfortunately I was never able to find a job in the field. Since then, I had several long term office jobs, but was never really happy with my career. When the last company I worked for went out of business, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to go back to school in the a field similar to my original degree. My neighbor had also graduated from this program several years ago, and loves the field.

What advice would you have for new students who are thinking about pursuing a similar degree?

Michelle: First of all, it's important to remember that it's never too late to go back to school. We have an age range from 19-60+ years of age in our program. Also, the Worker Retraining program at Green River helped so much in allowing me to back to school, so I would look into that funding program, as well as other funding programs offered through Workforce Education. The PTA program accepts only 32 students per year, so it's important to stand out. The application only asks for 20 hours of volunteer work as a requirement to apply, but I would do as many hours as you can. I would also suggest volunteering in several different types of Physical Therapy settings. It's a tough program regardless of your background, so I would be prepared to work no more than 20 hours per week outside of class, if that. A strong background in anatomy helps too!

$$$ Update! All four Workforce Education programs - BFET, Opportunity Grant, Worker Retraining, and WorkFirst - support Physical Therapist Assistant training at Green River.