When Carter Menikheim heard about the new SUNY Reconnect program, he didn't hesitate. "As soon as it was announced, I knew immediately I was going to college. I knew immediately I wanted to focus on computers as a career. I had taken Cisco online courses. I had a general background in IT. I had to hop on this. It's a great opportunity."
SUNY Reconnect is a free community college program for students between the ages of 25 and 55 who have not yet earned a college degree. It covers the cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies after all other financial aid is applied.
Menikheim is a graduate of Fayetteville-Manlius High School whose only previous college experience was an online psychology course. He chose Onondaga Community College's Computer Information Systems degree program because of his mother's experience as a network engineer. "She raised me around that environment. I have a fascination with knowing how computers work. They make sense to me, and I'm very good at problem-solving."
During the fall semester, Menikheim took two classes, and he's taking three classes this semester. Coming to OCC has provided him the structure and support he needed. "It gave me a focus and a clear path. It's been really nice to have access to all of these resources. My Navigator, Naomi Stewart, has been super helpful. My experience here has been very good."
His career goal is to work in IT, and he's grateful SUNY Reconnect is helping him get started. "There are a lot of great opportunities in the field, and a realistic, reliable job waiting for someone with the right skills. I'm so grateful to the state for doing this program. Access to education is very important. It's uplifting and inspiring to see this kind of thing happening."
