Opportunity

Transcript

Now we are heading over to meet Tyler. He’s a recent graduate of the physical therapist assistant program. His academic journey had a few twists and turns, but he made sure his second chance and opportunities here at Owens set him up for success in his career and in life. Tell us all about it, Tyler.

– Thank you, Alex. Hey, everybody. My college story starts in 2008 after graduating high school. I changed majors in my old college to athletic training, and I loved it. The only problem was I loved partying even more. Eventually, I ran outta money and had to move back to my hometown. After moving back home I tried a community college where I met great faculty and started a new program in the physical therapist assistant. Unfortunately, my focus shifted again and my life changed in an instant. I faced some challenges from a drunk driving incident and was sent to prison for six years. After I got out, I knew this was my time to restart and change my life. I met my wife, moved, and started a new job. I knew I didn’t want to be in that job forever, so I started looking at local colleges and universities. Found Owens offers a PTA program at an affordable cost, has a solid reputation in the physical therapy community, and has a smaller, more welcoming class size. After two weeks of school starting and getting to know my classmates who are now good friends, I was elected class president and got involved in everything that Owens PTA program has to offer. Being given that second or third chance has changed my life, Owens has given me an opportunity to live the life I want while providing for my loved ones. Faculty and staff have been a foundation that have rebuilt who I want to be. When I first started looking at colleges 15 years ago, I had never heard of Owens Community College. After some hard learning, I found it. Now I’m an officially licensed and practicing physical therapist assistant. Thanks for listening. Back to you, Alex.

– Thank you for sharing your story, Tyler. Owens prides itself on inclusivity for its students. The support from classmates and instructors plays a huge role in your education. Owens students continuously credit their classmates’ and instructors’ support as the biggest reason they find success, which is awesome. Thanks again, Tyler.