Hanging Up Her Apron for a New Future

Transcript

Okay, folks, now we’re headed to Gateway Community College. The first technical college in Arizona and home to the Gateway Geckos. Let’s meet Courtney, a former executive pastry chef currently studying computer information systems who is looking for a new career and greater opportunity. You definitely whetted our appetite Courtney, and we wanna hear more. Over to you.

– Hey, everyone. Growing up, I always wanted to be an executive pastry chef. I moved Arizona by myself to pursue my degree in culinary arts. I worked my way up to become an executive pastry chef, but after being on that journey, as much as I loved making desserts, I didn’t love the amount of time spent and lack of financial incentive that came with the profession. I decided to hang my apron up and focus on something that would set me up for greater success. Re-careering for me has meant that I must work and go to school full-time. I’m in my second year with Gateway Community College, taking all of my courses online. My professors post my lectures and materials weekly with all due dates in advance. This is how I’m able to maintain my 3.7 GPA and work full-time. I’m not gonna lie, I was nervous about taking all my courses online. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to hold myself accountable and my teachers would just see me as just another number. That couldn’t be further from the truth. My professors also have in person classes and take their online courses just as seriously. They’re always quick to get back to me and provide feedback to help me improve. Once I graduate from Gateway, I’ll transfer to ASU through the MAPP program. The MAPP program is a transfer partnership between Maricopa Community Colleges and Arizona State University which helps people like me get a degree in the most affordable way possible. I’m currently employed in sales and hope that my degree and time spent working will aid me in reaching this goal. Back to you, Alex.

– Courtney, that was a bold decision to step away from a successful career, but it looks like the online program at Gateway Community College has given you a new recipe for success. We have no doubt you’ll achieve your goals of becoming a project manager. Cheers, Courtney.