Robert Rowe
I have my mom to thank for directing me to Lake Washington Technical Academy at Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT). I struggled during my public high school years and, upon her advice, visited the Kirkland campus. What surprised me was that The Academy offered both a high school and a college education simultaneously. I knew, then, if I played my cards right, I'd receive my high school diploma and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Multi-Media Design and Production (MMDP). How could I refuse such a deal!
The Academy, as it turned out, was no easy walk in the park. Advanced mathematics classes presented a big challenge, especially polynomials. However, I discovered trigonometry to be more interesting and definitely more useful in my chosen field.
I've loved 3D animation since I got my first 3D program - Milkshape 3D. Prior to entering The Academy, I began winning awards in my high school's Student Art Showcase. During my Academy years, I utilized this expertise to organize an art showcase of LWTC students' work. More opportunities arose, as I also designed my own graduation pamphlet, helped fellow Academy students with their artwork during the human life drawing sessions and tutored college students in Maya programming. At the request of LWTC's President Metke, I spoke to investors about the numerous educational and employment benefits offered by The Academy
I'm happy to report that LWIT's guidance and instruction, in the area of 3D, have landed me a job in Eastern Washington, making character and environments for a historical 3D animation. As I look to the future, my goals are twofold. I'd love to return to Seattle and model characters for video games or video animations. I also see myself teaching a class at the college to share my experiences with the younger generation.
A special thanks goes to Academy instructors John Gabriel, Jason Maccoy, Bobby Julag-ay, Michele Martinez, Martie Ovitt, Glynna Lee, and Kim Infinger who played a major role in my success today.
I highly recommend Lake Washington Technical Academy to any high school student who wishes a head start and a solid education with valuable hands-on experience.
And finally...once again...Thank you, Mom!
Chris Puelo
I've been fascinated with motorcycles all of my life. My mother blames my passion on the ride she took on a Harley when she was pregnant. She may be right because at present, I own two bikes and not one car.
I'm an East Coast transplant who has dabbled in everything from rock climbing and sword making to helping my folks run a grocery store and serving as a volunteer firefighter. Lake Washington Technical College (LWIT) has sharpened my interests and focused my goals. For little expense but a lot of educational payoff, I will become a valuable employee or employer, using knowledge gained in LWIT's Motorcycle Service Technology program.
This quarter I'm taking physics, math, and motorcycle service technology classes. In addition, the college's unique learning environment has allowed me to expand the way I think. I've had the opportunity to increase both my logical and abstract thinking capabilities, which has all led to a valuable lesson in time management. Juggling work, school, and family has proved most challenging.
For nearly two years, LWIT has felt like home. There is always a faculty or staff member guiding me when needed. Bob Monroig, Harley-Davidson University Program Coordinator, offered me the chance to help with Harley training for the dealership technician as part of a SkillsUSA-VICA community service project. Noticing I was quite comfortable with this class, Bob encouraged me to teach the Harley-Davidson Preventative Maintenance classes through LWIT's Business Training Center. This experience has inspired me to start instructing more. I like to teach people about their bikes and to see them develop into educated consumers. Some are my customers at Eastside Harley-Davidson where I'm employed.
Even though I'll finish my classes in March, 2004, I plan to participate in the commencement ceremonies in June. After a lifetime of false starts, the accomplishment of earning the LWIT diploma will mean more to me than anything else.
The many opportunities at LWTC have motivated me to perhaps pursue a Mechanical Engineering degree or to continue teaching. I wasn't this motivated in my youth, but will waste no more time, thanks to Lake Washington's shove in the right direction.
Jose Mateu
My journey began when I moved from my hometown of Ketchican, Alaska to Washington state during my junior year in high school. Though I completed my junior year at Lake Stevens High School carrying a 4.0 GPA, I felt the traditional curriculum failed to stimulate my budding interest.
My counselor presented me with an alternative study plan offered at Lake Washington Technical Academy in partnership with Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT). My tuition and tools would be paid for.
Motorcycles have always been a hobby of mine and when I learned LWTC provided motorcycle service and maintenance courses, I decided to try it as a possible career. I'm now enrolled in the Power Equipment, Marine & Motorcycle Service Technician program, working towards my Associate Degree in Applied Science.
It's hard to imagine that had I remained at Lake Stevens High School I'd be looking for a college at this point, instead of already arriving half-way to an Associates Degree. Lake Washington Technical Academy has given me a great opportunity, and a head start, to pursue a career I love.
I was proud to be named president of the LWIT chapter of "Skills USA VICA," a national vocational-industrial club that promotes leadership and skill. This year I competed in the Motorcycle Service Technician Competition where I won the state title. This honor led me to Kansas City to compete nationally. Though I didn't win, I met many people in the motorcycle industry and also tested my skills against some of the best students in the country.
I've recently been hired by the Lynnwood Cycle Barn in Lynnwood, Washington, one of the top motorcycle dealerships in the nation. I am fully prepared to join today's workforce and under the knowledgeable instruction of LWIT's Bob Monroig, I feel both confident in my marketable skills and of value to my employer.
