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“Education is important because you learn more about other perspectives when attending school with people of different backgrounds and ages.”

Education has been a driving force in Century College alum Mikaela Sturz’s life, opening doors beyond career opportunities and providing opportunities to connect with individuals whom she would not have known otherwise. She started at the College while in high school as a Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) student.

Like many high school students standing at the crossroads of their future, Lydia Maule was unsure of her career direction. It wasn’t until she took an EMT course through Century College’s 916 program that her path became clear.

Cathy Wright’s journey from a successful Group CFO to an interior designer epitomizes the transformative power of following one’s dreams. A 2024 Century College Interior Design graduate, Cathy’s high energy and ambition are a testament to creating a new career path, driven by a lifelong passion for creativity, aesthetics, and hard work.

Dave O’Donnell’s career journey from the print industry to the world of cybersecurity is a remarkable tale of hard work and determination. Starting in graphic arts, Dave’s career trajectory was altered by a back injury sustained while working as a printing press operator. This setback, however, did not deter him from forging ahead and carving out a new professional path.

Dave gained valuable experience in various corporate environments, from Best Buy to Office Max, and went on to spend two decades building the business at Cal Spas in Plymouth, MN, through strategic planning, leadership, and a knack for building meaningful relationships. Despite his success, he yearned for a career that would fully satisfy his puzzle and problem-solving skills, leading him to the exciting world of cybersecurity.

Elizabeth Johnson’s journey from a stay-at-home mom to a successful medical coder at Gillette Children’s is inspiring and a testament to the power of determination, support, and education.

Elizabeth’s story is a shining example of how never giving up on your dreams can lead to a fulfilling career that balances professional satisfaction with family life.

“Knowledge is power. No one can take it away from you. Education can take you somewhere you’ve never been. It’s hard to make something of yourself without it.”

Mohamed Mohamed, a second-year Century College MIS student, is driven to succeed. As a first-generation college student and the oldest of four, he feels the pressure to be a good role model for his siblings and parents. He wants to show them what they can do, too.

“Education is important because you hold yourself to a higher standard, and you envision a higher, better version of yourself. Education should be important to everyone.”

Siem Medhane, a second-year student at Century, chose the College because of its proximity to his home and the recommendations of his friends, who transferred to four-year universities after graduating from Century.

Marco Moriarty loves to take on new challenges. When he chose Century College, it was because of its affordability and proximity to his home. Initially, he took General Education courses and studied business. However, after a break, he realized that he needed to be more strategic and challenge himself further. Fueled by his thirst for knowledge, he decided to return to Century College and shift his focus to engineering.

Photayoke King believes in the transformative power of education, and through hard work and persistence, he is achieving the life of his dreams. And he’s striving to live a life of service to others as well.

Throughout his career, he’s held a variety of positions in different industries, including technical support, medical device specialization, production and food operational management, assembly lead, and personal care assistance.

Pursuing an education has numerous benefits that extend beyond career advancement, including improved communication skills, and opportunities to connect with new people.

First-generation student Hem Regmi understands the value of these skills in an interconnected, world economy. Originally from Nepal, Hem appreciates the necessity of education leading to an expanded worldview. As a global citizen, he speaks Nepali, English, and Hindi.

As a first-generation student, Rosa Camila Baca, (who goes by Camila) is well on her way to achieving the knowledge and skills she needs for career and personal success. Originally from Peru, Camila speaks three languages fluently (Spanish, English, and French), and is working on a fourth–Chinese.

One of the hallmark characteristics of an entrepreneur is the willingness to take risks. And Century College student Hashim Butt has that quality in abundance. Originally from Islamabad, Pakistan, Hashim is from a family of entrepreneurs and risk-takers. For four generations, his family has owned a business that manufactures leather products.