It turned out to be a wonderful new experience for me. I made new friends and made great memories. Although, I had many challenges through my years in the LEAP program, with the help of my instructors and friends, I was able to succeed.

As a LEAP student, I was able to do many of the activities that went along every day at Albany Tech. Last year in 2018, we went as a class to Memphis, Tennessee! I love the LEAP program because it challenges me to be a better person and work harder. It has taught me to believe in myself and always have a positive outlook on life. Being a LEAP student isn’t all fun and games.  I did face some challenges, but I was successful with the help of the LEAP instructors and my friends.
 
I have been participating in an internship all through my final semester in college.  I am an office assistant in the Economic Development office on campus.  I help my supervisor organize and file documents.  The building I work in is across campus and is quite a walking distance - it's great exercise! I look forward to continuing my work experience after college as well.

I enrolled in Albany Technical College's Leveraging Education for Advancement Program (LEAP) Fall Semester 2016.  I was the very first student in the college’s brand new inclusive post-secondary education program which offers a Business Office Assistant Certificate.  While in the LEAP program, I participated in job shadowing in different offices within the college’s admission department.  This great experience helped me apply what I learned in the classroom, and I was also able to learn new skills.   
 
I completed the LEAP program in August 2018, and I am now employed on a trial part-time basis as an office assistant with the Arthur K. Williams Microbusiness Center.  I perform office duties to include answering the phone, typing documents, creating PowerPoints, filing, making copies, and greeting visitors.  I am a fast typist and make great PowerPoints.  I like the work that I do and the people that I meet.  I hope to be able to keep this job after my trial period is over.  My supervisors say that they love me and want to keep me.  Working and earning a wage makes me feel good.  Because of my experiences, my future is brighter.  
 
My graduation ceremony will be December 6, 2018.  I am excited and looking forward to what lies ahead.

by Marquis Boone
Albany Tech, Class of 2018