Millennials — They Did It

Why are more and more millennials choosing the College of Continuing and Professional Education? Some of our youngest students have discovered the true value of earning a professional certificate and how it enhances their career outlook. High school students have found that we are the best alternative to a traditional four-year college, while undergrads are realizing the worth of adding complementary programs to boost their degree.

Whitney
Whitney Thomas was passionate about the hospitality industry and entered our Culinary Apprenticeship Certificate program straight from high school.

“During my senior year at South Paulding High School, I decided that’s what I wanted to do,” she said. “I liked that it was hands-on and we were going to get an apprenticeship at a prominent restaurant that could potentially lead to a job or reference. It was a great program.”

In addition to honing her skills in the culinary arts, the class helped build Whitney’s confidence.

“At the beginning of the experience, I was not very outgoing with trying new things,” she said. “The further along I got in the class, the better I got with doing certain things and I became comfortable cooking in front of other people. The people running the program were great. We became a family.”

Yola
Yola Ipaye is a recent KSU graduate. He majored in exercise science but decided to expand his skills by taking our Phlebotomy Technician Certificate program. Yola is one of many young students that understand the importance of added education in today’s job market. His efforts have led to a full-time employment position as a phlebotomist.

“A friend told me about this class,” he said. “It’s always good to have two options. I’m not just focused on one part. The more, the better.”

A.J.
A.J. Tuttle is perhaps one of youngest students our College has ever served. A sophomore at Lassiter High School, the 16-year-old received special permission to take our Web Design Certificate course. A.J.’s initiative is giving him a huge head start in gaining valuable job skills over his peers.

“I love technology and want to have a good job where I can work with it as soon as possible,” he said. “I love the class. It’s very laid back and its goal feels more like learning the software programs over just working for a good grade. I want to get a job where I can do something I want to do (build websites).”

What’s holding you back?
Whitney, Yola and A.J. have done it. What do you need to do to do it?

Want to know more about millennials preparing for success in the workplace? Check out this article on meaningful work for millennials.

Photo: Whitney Thomas, left, and Yola Ipaye both pursued continuing education early in their career. Whitney graduated from our Culinary Apprenticeship program while Yola completed the Phlebotomy Technician Certificate.