Growing up in Wisconsin, I embodied the definition of an 'unconventional student.' With an unstable family situation, I spent much of my youth acting as a caretaker for my mother and siblings. Consequently, college became a proverbial tug-of-war between education and survival, and I ultimately paused my degree to support myself.

After moving to New York, I discovered Per Scholas and was amazed to find a comprehensive training program offered at no cost. Although I had been out of school for over a decade—and felt the distinct 'rollercoaster' anxiety of returning—I committed to the process. Through hard work, I transformed from a tech novice into a certified Cybersecurity Analyst.

The bootcamp was so empowering that I returned to Per Scholas as a staff member to pay it forward. Progressing from a Cybersecurity Instructional Assistant to a Career Development Coach, I now help students strategize career pathways and navigate emerging industry trends. The most rewarding part of my work is coaching career changers who are giving themselves a second chance. Providing others with the sense of belonging I experienced, while helping change their financial trajectories, gives me an immense sense of purpose.