Successful Adult Learners at OCC

“This was way easier than when I was younger. At this age, all I wanted to do was improve my life and set an example for my kids. Your maturity level now is so much better. You can see the reason why you're doing it.”

– Albadir Mcknight

“I had this realization that 6 or 7 years would go by whether I was in school or sitting behind a desk. I could either have a new career after 6 or 7 years or be unhappy doing what I was doing. I love being here. All of my professors are amazing. I'm very appreciative of this school.”

– Katie Morgan

"I never thought I would belong in a place like this. Now I know a whole different way of life. I have an appreciation for it. I'm just happy to be around clean, nice furniture and cool machines."

– Dio Brown

“Completing my degree and becoming a nurse was my dream since I came to the United States. I can’t believe my dream came true.”

– Rania Estefanous

“At first, I was super nervous. After a couple of days, I relaxed and realized I was excited to be back in school. I learned how to stay on a strict schedule. It’s never too late to do this!”

– Evan Riccardo

"At first, I was concerned because I was an adult student. I realized quickly there were so many people like me. I quickly became comfortable and excelled academically. I realized how good at academics I am and how naturally it comes to me."

– Alexis Rios

“Starting school was kind of scary for me, but I needed to jump into it full speed. I had awesome professors. I was very open and honest with all of them and told them what I was battling and dealing with. All of them were very understanding. To have people to talk to and be honest with was so important.”

– Josh Barr

"The advisors here were amazing. They were always staying in touch and giving me all of the things I needed to succeed. Sometimes I had impostor syndrome and didn’t think I belonged here. But when people were telling me I was doing great, I realized I really did belong here."

– Melissa Duran

“The experience I was able to get through my internship was priceless. I’m very happy I went back to school. I think it’s the decision I am proudest of. I’m very excited about the new experiences ahead of me.”

– RJ Tinsley

"I wanted to switch careers and find something that was stable and exciting. I started doing research, realized X-ray technology had always interested me, I could get my prerequisites here, and transfer to SUNY Upstate Medical University’s MRI Technician program."

– Meghan Bird

"The teachers are super nice, very intelligent, and very supportive. They have made it very easy for me. The whole campus vibe, the environment, is great for the students. From the teachers to the navigators, everyone is working hard to help you be successful. That's what I love about this place.”

– Haseeb Ahmadi

“I had a tremendous experience at OCC, which I won’t forget. I feel like OCC prepared me for the journey ahead.”

– Ericka Ruffin

"OCC is a really great school. It is so accommodating and supportive, especially for older students. There's a really nice sense of community. I would recommend this school to anyone. It's a hidden gem."

– Alex Espitia-Casallas

“I really loved it at OCC. It was very inclusive, and I got the full college experience. They made everyone feel at home.”

– Danielle Lambert

“My time at OCC was amazing. The students were incredible, the professors were great, and the support the school offered exceeded my expectations.”

– Shelly Dunham