Chasing His Dream

Grad looks to score touchdown for his career

André Parker loves sports and, at the age of 41, he’s working hard to turn that passion into a profession. Parker, who graduated

from Westchester Community College in New York with his Associate in Information Computer Systems, worked for a physical therapy company before moving to Michigan with his wife and young son. Wanting the education to back up his on-the-job training, he turned to Washtenaw Community College.

“I did my research. I knew WCC had a good reputation and was affordable,” he said. “The transfer programs the school had in place with other colleges and universities were also a big draw.”

Making himself marketable

Hoping to one day work as a director of recruiting for a college football program, Parker began to take classes toward an Associates Degree in Business. He also took on

the role of event assistant with the college’s Student Activities department and later transferred to Eastern Michigan University.

Parker earned his Bachelor Degree in Business with a concentration in marketing and is currently working towards his Master’s in Educational Leadership. And, true to his passion, he works as a supervisor for the University of Michigan Athletics Response Team as well as a football coach at a local high school. In the summer, he also coaches collegiate running backs at University of Michigan football camps.

It’s just another step towards achieving a dream Parker knows will someday be a reality for him. “WCC set me up for success,” he said. “There is something there for everyone.”

He wishes more people knew about the benefits of community colleges.

“Don’t get caught up in the bright lights of a big university. At WCC you can go to class, attend events on campus and still have a job. You can get involved, network and have internships. If you seek it out, it’s there for you.”

Business
Business The business program at Washtenaw Community College includes certificates in Human Resource Management, Marketing and Sales, Management, Retail, Supply Chain Management and Accounting as well as a transfer degree which prepares students to transfer to a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree program at a four-year college or university. Many classes and programs are offered online. WCC also offers a 3+1 option that allows students to complete three years at WCC and finish their bachelor’s degree in a final year at Eastern Michigan University.

Learn more at wccnet.edu