Jared’s Story

Jared turned his passion for computer science into a college degree.

Jared P. entered the Cascades Job Corps Center with a passion for computer programming and web design, and he left prepared to attend a four-year college and start his career. 

Jared struggled with his job search after high school, where he had nurtured an interest in game and web design and completed several programming classes. He talked with a Job Corps admissions counselor, though, who told him that he could learn about design and earn college credits at the Cascades Job Corps Center. 

At Cascades Job Corps, Jared learned new skills, such as how to use a 3D modeling software called Blender, Adobe Photoshop, HTML and several other design programs. He even founded and led the Nintendo Club on center.  

“When I first started Job Corps, I would never have guessed I would be where I am now; but I advocated for myself and pushed myself to my limits.” 

Jared graduated from Job Corps and earned his associate degree in computer science from Skagit Valley College, all for free, with no tuition to pay or any debt. He even received a direct transfer agreement (DTA) to study computer science at the University of Washington–Tacoma. Jared recently earned the Transfer Merit Scholarship for his GPA and was nominated for the Lewis Award, Yates Award and President’s Medal for his achievements.  

He is on track to receive his bachelor’s degree in computer science in spring 2023, and he continues to stay in touch with his Job Corps mentors who helped him gain the confidence and the direction he needed to pursue his dream.  

Please forward this e-mail to the educators you work with to let them know about the new opportunities at Job Corps.  

You can also find other resources at info.joinjobcorps.com/school-counselors as you help the students you work with transition to independent living and a career.

Help them get started:

• Learn about Job Corps’ eligibility requirements and the option to enroll virtually.
• Encourage them to fill out an Enrollment Interest Form to be put in touch with an admissions counselor.

Our local admissions counselors will support them every step of the way through the process.

We’re ready to help high school students find their next step.

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