Deal Looking for Secure Career Niche

by Mary Bruner

Owensboro, KY (03/29/2019) — Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC) student Becky Deal values a career rather than a job. She learned this lesson after being laid off from a company she had been with for ten years. All of the employees within her department lost their positions due to outsourcing the work to computers.

It was then she realized the need to focus on finding her niche, something that was secure, and something that she could retire from when the time came. Therefore, she knew she needed to expand her education.

Becky chose OCTC because of its size and affordability. The small class sizes allow instructors to take a personal approach. She states that instructors are willing to help students if the students will just let them know.

She credits the college's staff and programs for helping her succeed. "My advisor, Julie Embry, is one of the most wonderful people I know. She cheers you on during your accomplishments and cries with you in the bad times, but she is part of her students' success."

Becky also credits OCTC's TRiO Student Support Services program for its non-judgmental approach, which allowed her to make personal relationships she probably would not have had. "The TRiO staff made a difference in my education; it's part of their DNA to be servants to students and help, whether it's personal needs, workshops, food, or cultural trips that would be non-existent in a college student's budget."

While pursuing her education, Becky faces daily obstacles, including a medical condition that impacts her mobility and her reliance on public transportation. However, she never loses sight of her end goal - to earn her degree and pursue a career in a secure field.

Becky is on track to graduate in May. She will earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Medical Information Technology, specializing in electronic records and office management.

We wish her well in her career pursuit and thank her for being a valued member of TRiO Student Support Services. She is a great example of persistence and determination. Watch Becky Deal's interview.

OCTC's TRiO Student Support Services is a federally funded program offering academic and personal support for students with disabilities, first-generation college students or individuals who are income eligible. The goal of the program is to reduce barriers to help students successfully complete classes, graduate, and/or transfer to a 4-year institution. Once students become active TRiO members, they remain a member and receive our services for the duration of their college career.

OCTC's TRiO staff is made up of Becky Hodskins, Director, Lindsey Greer, Advisor, and Mary Bruner, Program Assistant. The TRiO office is located on the upper level of the Learning Resource Center. For more information about OCTC's TRiO please contact mary.bruner@kctcs.edu.

Media Attachments