Kenneth: I was working 3 jobs when the pandemic hit. I got laid off and decided to enlist in the Army Reserve as a Combat Medic.
Caroline: While at college in New York I decided to enlist in the Army Reserve as a 54B Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Specialist. I served because I am an immigrant and wanted to give back to America.
Kenneth: When I started at Shasta College, I was only taking one class. I always had this feeling that a college degree was not needed if I just gained enough experience. Later, however, I realized I could do both and make progress towards a career in law enforcement.
Caroline: My husband and I saw the Carr Fire devastation and when we bought land to build a forever home, we wanted to build it out of Hempcrete which is mold, termite, and fire resistant. With that in mind, I enrolled in the heavy equipment operations program in addition to taking welding classes. Troy Towery has been an excellent instructor!
Kenneth: I’m a firm believer that all veterans are family and that’s no exception at Shasta College. They treat you like family here. If you’re a veteran and you’re not going to college, you’re leaving money on the table.
Caroline: Being a constant learner is important. Things change all the time. I realize I prefer working and doing things outdoors vs. working in an office. Also I am an older learner and want to have different skill sets that AI cannot take over.
Kenneth: If you’re at a dead end in life, you need to ask, “Do I want to still be doing this same thing next year?” I realized that change doesn’t just happen. You have to go and make it happen.
Caroline: Don’t be afraid to learn. Try new things, meet new people, and there’s all kinds of activities here. In fact, one of the counselors told me there’s a noncredit class in wine tasting. And I thought to myself, I may be interested in that!
Kenneth (son) & Caroline (mom): Our success started at Shasta College!