Testimonials

Student Stories

Sam Sanders

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

Sam Sanders was in a terrible car accident that left him unable to stay in the career he had been in for 30 years. He was told he would be unable to walk and didn’t see how he could change careers much less care for himself. His ACCES-VR counselor told him about REOC. The Office Support Specialist program was the perfect fit for the skills he had in customer service and computer software. After successfully graduating REOC’s Office Support Specialist program, Sam enrolled in college and is now a full-time student studying to be an Administrative Assistant.

Sam’s quote is: “Come to REOC! New beginnings start with ME!”

Dana Johnson

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

Dana Johnson was working full-time when she started the REOC. She knew that it may be difficult to juggle work and a full-time school schedule but she knew that she needed to get the training to move her into a career in health care.

She started her journey at the REOC in the Medical Secretary program and is now employed full time as a fulfillment manager in the medical field. She is also currently taking classes toward her Bachelor of Science Degree at The College at Brockport.

Her future goal includes obtaining her Ph.D. in the Health Administration field.

Daryl Session, Jr.

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity CenterDaryl always struggled with school. He failed the 9th grade three times and decided that he had enough. After a life journey and encouragement from his grandmother, he attended an informational session regarding Operation Transformation Rochester at the REOC. He knew that his passion to obtain his High School Equivalency, the support from his family, and the supports within the program were just what he needed to succeed. He enrolled in the program and with practice, determination and his willingness to ask questions when needed, Daryl obtained his High School Equivalency! He is now in college on his way to earning his Associates degree!

He recently earned his first job and life could not be better for Daryl.

Shirley Reddick

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

Shirley Reddick came to REOC with a past full of health issues and personal problems. She knew she needed to make a change and she did! She enrolled in and completed the REOC Office Assistant program and is now more positive about herself than she has ever been before. She volunteers regularly for the REOC, giving back so that others can see how much you can accomplish with hard work, determination and a positive attitude. Shirley has learned to “dress for success” and knows that nothing can stop her now.

Shirley’s motto is:” Keep trying until you reach your goal.”

Griselle Hernandez

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

After searching the internet for something that would help her obtain her High School Equivalency, Giselle Hernandez came across the REOC. Griselle saw that the program fit her needs and she applied. Not only did Griselle obtain her High School Equivalency, but she also went on to earn her certificate in the REOC Medical Secretary program. Through the Medical Secretary program Giselle interned at a local agency and was hired after graduation at her internship site! She has since been hired as the front desk representative at a child acre agency and loves her work!

Griselle draws on the C.S. Lewis quote when using words for her inspiration: “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

Angel Swaney

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

Angel Swaney always had a fear of failing and did not like school. It took a lot for Angel to walk through the front doors of the REOC and to enroll in the High School Equivalency program. But through perseverance and ambition, Angel not only passed the High School Equivalency examination, but is now enrolled in college and continuing higher education studies. From not liking school to earning a Leadership certificate from REOC and now on track to graduate college. Angel has said that she now wants more for herself. She is well on her way.

Victoria Hall

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

Victoria Hall was struggling before she came to REOC. She knew she needed to “make her life right” and contacted the REOC to work on obtaining her High School Equivalency. Furthering her education was always a dream for Victoria, and through the supportive faculty and staff at the REOC, Victoria was able to realize her dream. She obtained her High School Equivalency and has her sights set on starting college.

She says that the faculty and staff at the REOC are, “there to help you any time.”

Clover Robinson

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center

Clover Robinson needed stable employment. She had a fear of being unemployed as an older adult. She always loved caring for people and becoming a nurse was a dream.  She enrolled in the REOC’s Licensed Practical Nursing program and found that this was her career calling! At REOC she received the Clinical Excellence Award for her outstanding clinical work while in the program. After graduation she became employed as an LPN at a local hospital and now has her sights set on becoming a Registered Nurse. Clover states that she now has a lifelong career and that REOC has friendly and caring staff and instructors.

What Students are Saying....

, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “Not only does REOC provide me different program options and certifications, it provided me the opportunity for a tuition-free education.”
– Shamika, Cosmetology Program
, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “I went to another school for a semester and didn’t like it.  I met a girl who went to REOC and recommended it.  She told me about her job delivering babies and I was interested.  I like that this is a hands-on program. “
– Chelsea, Surgical Technician Program
, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “I heard that REOC had one of the best cosmetology programs in Rochester and that it had a great teaching staff.  I love it here.”
– Jose, Cosmetology Program
, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “I received my cosmetology license and I wanted to further myself in the cosmetology field by choosing the barbering program at REOC. I’m learning different ways to style and cut hair.”
– Kirsten, Cosmetology Program
, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “I didn’t choose REOC…..REOC chose me.  I was laid off from my job of 38 years and REOC’s surgical technician program was recommended to me. I thought with my EMT past, maybe my age would become an asset rather than a liability. I applied to REOC and they accepted me.”
– Gregory, Surgical Technician Program
, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “I received my GED here and I chose a program I was interested in to prove to myself I could go farther.”
– Vanessa, Surgical Technician Program
, Testimonials, Rochester Educational Opportunity Center “At REOC you get a high-quality education that doesn’t put you in debt after you graduate.”
– Gina, Cosmetology Program
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