Randy is a thirty‑one-year-old working toward obtaining an associate degree in information technology. His favorite class so far has been Networking 103. When asked why that class was his favorite said, “that’s the class where you finally put your knowledge and hard work to use. You’ve spent all this time creating your ‘baby,’ and now you can start working with it.”
Randy comes from a labor background, has an 18-month old son, and even though he is older than the traditional student, he is highly driven to succeed in his academic goals to give his family a better future. Randy decided to start a career in the IT field because he feels it would give him a career doing something interesting and new. Randy also stated that a career where you can sit while you work sounds pretty appealing after so many years of labor.
Randy feels that many WVJC faculty and staff have helped him along his academic journey, but most of all, he is grateful for Mr. Powell and Ms. Middleton. Randy stated that Ms. Middleton worked with him and understood the financial struggles that college brings. She was patient, helpful, and did whatever she could to make sure he was able to attend WVJC. Mr. Powell is understanding and accommodating. If it wasn’t for him, Randy feels he would not fully understand the content in the difficult IT courses. Randy states that Mr. Powell is a phenomenal instructor who goes above and beyond for his students.
Randy enjoys the challenges that college-level learning brings. One tool he said that has been an asset to him in his college career is the “inability to lose.” Randy is very competitive, and luckily some of his classes allow him to use that as motivation.
When asked what his favorite part of WVJC was, Randy stated, “The class structure and small class sizes are extremely beneficial. Knowing your instructors have your back and truly want you to succeed is incredible. The entire staff has a fantastic, helpful attitude. Honestly, WVJC as a whole is my favorite thing.”
Randy’s advice to other students would be to put in as much work and as many hours as your instructors do. Do not lose your motivation. Remember your reason for being there. You have to have accountability. Most importantly, you have to be driven to succeed. Your instructors can only do so much. You’re taught 90%, and the other 10% has to come from you.
To learn more about WVJC’s Information Technology program, request information here!