Manuel G.
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology/Information Systems Security
Hometown: Austin, TX
Manuel has been working on his degree since 1994. He was an automotive mechanic and in 2000 transitioned into the technology field. This was also the year his first child was born and he and his wife purchased their first home. Through the economic crash of the early 2000’s, Manuel survived layoffs by earning certifications to stay afloat, “I frequently worked late into the night learning anything that would make me more valuable as an employee. With unwavering focus, I passed certifications and became the subject matter expert of many of our systems that no one else saw value in learning. It seemed like a better idea than finishing my degree given the uncertainty of my timeline within the company.” Manuel admits he has had a pattern of putting work before education and he is ready to change that dynamic. “Finishing my degree would make me infinitely more marketable but I can't afford it while supporting a family of five. The expense is my only obstacle, so if granted this scholarship I could finally finish my degree,” Manuel explains.
With the help of the Focus to the FinishSM scholarship, Manuel will earn his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. He is anxious to take courses on database systems, Java Programming, Cloud Computing, web design and development.
To learn more about pursuing scholarship opportunities of your own, visit the Center for Scholarship Excellence today.
