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Finding Purpose, One Class at a Time

Posted by katie.weibel

For Tony, 2024 marked a turning point.

At 52, Tony decided it was finally time to pursue something he’d wanted for years: a college degree. Enrolling ����ֱ�� and working toward an AA in Computer Information Systems (CIS) became part of a much larger life shift—one rooted in recovery, growth, and choosing a different future.

“I’d always wanted a college degree,” Tony shared. “I just hadn’t been in a place where I could do it. I decided to take the plunge and see how far I could go with a little education.”

That leap paid off quickly. School became a source of structure, pride, and momentum—what Tony describes as the perfect replacement for old habits. The effort he put in was met with positive feedback, strong grades, and a growing sense of confidence. His first term ended with a 4.0 GPA, an achievement that proved to him that he could do this.

“Even this old brain is still working if I put in the effort,” he said with a laugh. “It became a matter of pride.”

While CIS is his chosen field, some of Tony’s most meaningful experiences came from unexpected places. Writing courses and sociology—especially Introduction to Queer Studies and Composition I & II—became highlights of his academic journey. “I didn’t want those classes to be over,” he said. “They were the most rewarding.”

Support also played a key role. Through STEP, Tony connected with his coach, Tu—someone he describes as genuinely invested in his success. “I didn’t even know the program existed,” he said. “Just having someone to check in with, someone who cared—it made a huge difference.”

One standout moment came when Tony was invited to join the honor society. “I never thought that would be me,” he said. “It felt like a thumbs-up from the universe—like, okay, you’re doing the right thing.”

Today, Tony approaches school with the same values guiding his recovery: honesty, consistency, and follow-through. “I’ve learned I can keep my word to myself,” he said. “I can have structure. I can have a plan.”

When asked what he’d say to someone in recovery who’s thinking about going back to school, Tony didn’t hesitate. Education, he says, gives your days purpose, connection, and payoff. “All you have to do is do the work, it’s amazing the success possible when you do. and its validation you’re not late- you’re right on time”, he said. 

“I’m just truly, truly grateful,” he said. “For PCC, for the instructors, for the computer lab, for everyone who helped me along—even when they didn’t know they were.”

Tony’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to begin—and that with the right support, growth is always possible.