“Working hard is important. But there is something that matters even more: believing in yourself.” This quote from J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series kept Holden Webb going even when his career path felt challenging.1 By believing in his abilities and the good he could do for others as a paralegal, Holden completed both our diploma and Associate of Applied Science degree programs.
When Andrea Saldana was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at the age of 40, she knew she was about to face the fight of her life. But what she did next is truly remarkable.
“I was diagnosed in April of 2022,” says Andrea. “I have worked in healthcare all my life, and I knew something was wrong with my body. The diagnosis didn’t surprise me, but how much treatment I would need did. I just kept wondering how I was going to get through.”
Facing chemotherapy, a mastectomy and radiation, Andrea knew she would have to take time off work.
At Rockford Career College, online programs offer a flexibility many students are drawn too. April Rocha was one of those students who knew the online Cannabis Dispensary Administration program would be challenging, but best fit for her busy schedule.
“The biggest hurdle was juggling 2 jobs and online school at the same time.” says April. “Online was a great option for me so I could continue to maintain my household and care for my family.”
Jamie Moran, Veterinary Technician graduate, admits enrolling in Rockford Career College was a big decision for her. “Going back to school in general was intimidating,” says Jamie. “I am not a school person, but I knew becoming a Veterinary Technician was what I wanted to do. Helping animals is a passion of mine.”
The summer of 2018 was the “Summer of Love” for Rockford Career College graduates Renee Hahn and Christian Carlson. The two met while working at a local home improvement store, and though they were happy to have found each other, they were both still searching for something more in terms of careers.
Adrein Turner says continuing his education was not easy, but it was worth the determination it took to succeed. A 2017 graduate of Rockford Career College, Adrein came to Rockford looking to begin his journey to becoming an Electrical Technician.
“There were times when life threw roadblocks in my way,” says Adrein. “Transportation issues and other setbacks can really make committing to your education difficult.”
But Adrein credits his instructors and Rockford’s team of student services staff for keeping him moving forward.
If you want to hire a go-getter, look no further than Jorman Nunez. Always seeking to improve himself through education, Jorman enrolled in a variety of trade programs to develop his skills. Jorman has already earned diplomas in welding and CNC and robotic manufacturing technology and electrical technician diploma program. He is positioning himself to become a manager who has the knowledge required to tackle all aspects of a project.
“You only fail when you stop trying!” says Charae Howard, Rockford Career College graduate. While enrolled in our career programs, Charae never stopped displaying determination. She earned not only a paralegal diploma but also her Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies degree. All of us at RCC are extremely proud of Charae for studying hard and achieving her academic and professional goals.
The need for medical assistants is growing, but not everyone is ready to answer that call. Being an excellent medical assistant requires patience, great interpersonal skills, and technical knowledge. That's why we are so proud of Gisca Mboumbou for stepping up to meet demand. After applying herself in her studies and externship, Gisca graduated from Rockford Career College's medical assistant program and began serving her community.
Welders are an indispensable part of our society. Found in construction sites, ship yards, garages, engineering firms, and aviation manufacturing sites, they help build and repair many essential vehicles and products. Knowing how vital welding is gave Adam Britton the confidence to choose it as his new profession. We are extremely proud of Adam for graduating from our welding program and beginning the career of his dreams.