Brooklyn Park, Nov. 1, 2022 – Many students at Hennepin Tech tell us that they enrolled because the pandemic prompted them to change careers. In some cases, people suffered a job layoff. In other cases, the life-altering experience of the pandemic resulted in serious soul-searching. Demetris Mitchell describes himself in the latter category. He is a student in the Audio Production program.
Hennepin Tech: How did the pandemic influence you?
Demetris: Right now I operate a forklift and work full-time moving freight. During COVID, I had time to evaluate what’s important to me in life and operating a forklift isn’t what I want to do. I met with my family and we talked about it. I am enjoying the Audio Production program. At this point, I’m not sure if I’ll go into music producing or work with audio in the film industry.
Hennepin Tech: The average age of a student at Hennepin Tech is age 27, which is older than typical colleges. Even so, you describe yourself as being an older student – even for this campus. How does that make your experience different?
Demetris: I have to be patient with myself. I’m in my late 30’s. I’m the oldest student in the program right now and I’ve been away from school for a long time. I’m not an 18-year-old. It’s a longer road for me as an older student because it just takes more effort for me to learn the information.
Hennepin Tech: What steps do you take?
Demetris: I take the same class again, if I need to. I’m taking Studio Operations for a second time. I feel like I need the information to stick in my brain. I did well in the class the first time but I want to retain all of it. I am here on campus as much as possible. I do work-study related to the program too.
Hennepin Tech: What’s your advice to other people who are considering a second career?
Demetris: Be passionate about something in your life. Hennepin Tech is giving me the opportunity to learn the skills that I need to pursue my passion. The tuition here is more affordable than other schools. Plus, I received scholarships and I’m doing work-study.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Technical College (Hennepin Tech) is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 40 programs in the skilled trades and high-demand career fields. Achieving a high job placement rate, Hennepin Tech prepares students for high-paying employment opportunities.
Original source can be found here.
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