Profiles
Pre-College Programs
Mary Grace Baldoz
High School Completion, Nursing-LPN Certificate
“The faculty are very helpful.”
Why Edmonds CC? The Opportunity Grant and there are many different kinds of classes that you can choose from for your career. I found the best career that I really like to do here, and so I took that opportunity to continue my education.
Why now? Once I had a family and kids, I didn’t think I had time for school but I started to organize my lifestyle so I could start again. I am a hard working-mom-student, have goals in life and I want it to be an example to my family and kids about how to be a successful person.
Best college experience earning my High School Diploma
Best advice for new students be organized
Where to go for help get good advice from counselors at Edmonds CC for your career
Favorite class Job Development, it helps prepare you for your interview, resume, and help you with your goals.
On my iPod Tagalog Songs & English songs
Video game Wii
Interests singing, outdoor activities, and Bible study
College goal Bachelor's Degree
Dream job I really want to be a RN someday, but if I will get a chance later in the future...I want to be a Medical Doctor.
Keith Bigham
GED, BRIDGE
“I’m becoming a leader and improving my job prospects.” Foundation scholarship recipient
Keith Bigham kept taking the GED class even after he passed the test. Earning his GED boosted his self-esteem and gave him a sense of accomplishment. He liked what he was getting out of being in class and wanted to stay connected. When an instructor suggested he prepare for college work, Bigham had his doubts. Returning to school after 29 years had been one big step, entering college would be another. But after taking Bridge classes such as reading/vocabulary and study skills over the summer, Bigham feels prepared. Meanwhile, he’s doing everything he can to ensure his success. He’s staying involved by working as a student programmer and encouraging others he meets on campus, too. “The college has resources and caring people. You can get the support you need to get to your goals,” he said. “I can do this."
Rebecca Bisset
GED
“I work hard, and I am able to do well in my classes.”
Before college Before I started classes at Edmonds, I was a wife and stay-at-home mom for 13 years.
Why Edmonds CC? to earn my GED
Biggest challenge I am partially sighted, and in fact I am legally blind. I lost my sight and some of my hearing when I was nine years old. As a result, I am not able to see the whiteboard in my classes. I have to listen very closely to my teachers in order to follow along, but I work hard, and I am able to do well in my classes. Another challenge I face is trying to get all of my schoolwork done in addition to taking care of my family – it’s tricky to try and balance everything.
Profiles in the Art of Living Rebecca’s portrait along with her essay about his college goals and experience is on display in the lobby of Mountlake Terrace Hall. This profile is an excerpt of that essay.
Photo by student Kim Morrow
Tiesen Butler
EdCAP
“Everyone is here to get where they are going.”
Why Edmonds CC? the Edmonds Career Access Program (EdCAP), friends recommended it
Why now? I needed my high school diploma to become a carpenter’s apprentice.
Best college experience getting to know the teachers, and the positive environment
Working in construction, carpentry with my Dad
What’s next? an apprenticeship in carpentry
Dream job carpenter
Yasemin Canpolat
ESL student, Turkey
"Studying ESL has been a rewarding experience."
Why Edmonds CC? From the beginning, I was made to feel welcome, as the instructors and advisers have always shown understanding and support, exhibiting a genuine care and concern for us, the international students.
Before Edmonds CC I'd previously completed my bachelor's degree in Turkey and have been employed as an accountant for the past eight years.
Why ESL? becoming more proficient in English was extremely important, particularly in my role, dealing extensively with international accounts.
Why now? I'd always planned and dreamed of investing in my future success by coming to America to further my English language training.
Best college experience the opportunity to participate in many of the entertainment and cultural activities available to students on campus. Not only have I learned much academically, it has also been wonderful exposure to life in the United States and the collegiate atmosphere, while making friends from all over the world.
What's next? continuing my education by pursuing an accounting certificate, learning even more about U.S. business.
Dream job applying my new skills working for an American company.
Patrícia Costa
ESL student, Brazil
“The staff is helpful and friendly.”
Why Edmonds CC? A friend who took the ESL Program recommended it. Then, I browsed the school's Web site and thought it would be a great choice.
Why Seattle? It’s a great city. I enjoy the environment: urban and nature.
How are your instructors? The teachers are great. I've been impressed by their skills leading the classes, giving feedback, and encouraging us to practice the language.
Classmates? The mix of cultures and, therefore, languages makes English the only way we have to communicate with each other. This helps us get a lot of practice.
What’s next? After I finish ESL, my goal is to get into the Edmonds CC Practical Nursing program.
Khanh Gia Huynh
ESL student, Vietnam
“I'm very interested in making airplanes.”
Why Edmonds CC? My uncle brought my application here.
Why now? to study ESL
Best college experience student activities and trips off campus
Quote “He that travels much knows much.” — Thomas Fuller
After ESL I'll take high school completion classes. Then I'm going to transfer to a four-year college.
College goal major in computer engineering
Dream job at The Boeing Company. I'm very interested in making airplanes.
Elvira Hernandez
ESL, Computer Information Systems
"I came to school for my family, so we can live better."
When Elvira came to the United States from Mexico in 1986 she found work as a seamstress. “I was always looking for something different it was a hard job with low pay.” she says. Then in 1991 she enrolled in the college's English as a Second Language program so she could communicate with teachers and doctors and better help her children. Now Elvira has earned her degree in computer information systems with specialties in CISCO networking and web development. Her job prospects have greatly improved, she says, and most importantly, she's providing a strong example for her three children. She hopes to continue on to complete her bachelor's degree.
Anna Hopkins
GED, Associate of Technical Arts Paralegal
“The wonderful instructors helped me overcome my math fears.”
Why Edmonds CC? close to home and supportive
Why now? for math help
Before Edmonds CC working at dead end jobs
Biggest challenge passing the GED and overcoming my math fears
Best college experience finding out about my learning disability with math and getting the help I needed, meeting all of the wonderful teachers here, too
Favorite classes Math 40 with David Breed, he taught it in a way that I could see how it was done and a GED preparation class with Jennifer Nicholas, she gave me the extra push I needed to go on and finish
Best advice for new students with all the help available here at Edmonds CC, and your desire to succeed, there is no way you can fail
iPod In My Arms-Plumb
Book The Kite Runner
Interests horseback riding, fencing, scuba diving and volunteering at the Seattle aquarium
College goal law school
Dream job lawyer
Jennifer Kylmala
High School Completion, Associate in Pre-Nursing
"Going to college means your life will be easier."
Jennifer Kylmala, 23, talks about her education with the serious tone and
practical terms more typical of older students. Life experience tends to
teach hard lessons about the value of education. "Going to college means
your life will be easier," Kylmala said. What's easier? "Paying for rent,
utilities and food," she said. In high school, while others completed
diplomas, she cared for her two younger siblings and worried about where her
family would live. "My family life was very complicated and chaotic at that
time," she said. Now Kylmala is focused on her education as a way to gain
stability in her own life so that she can better help her siblings. "If
parents can't support themselves their children will struggle too," she
said. "Education is the way to get out of the cycle of poverty and change
that for the next generation." She first came to the college to earn her GED
and then heard about the Edmonds Career Access Program (EdCAP) which
provides free tuition and books to students aged 16 to 21 while they earn a
high school diploma and a professional/technical degree. Last year, she
earned her diploma and a Pharmacy Technician Certificate. Now she is working
toward her Associate in Pre-Nursing degree with help from a state-funded
opportunity grant. She also connected with the federally funded TRIO-
Student Support Services program for tutoring and mentoring. She's already
gained a lot from her experience at the college. "Critical thinking skills
are important," she said. "You have to figure out what you need, how to get
it and get it done." Her next step is to attend the University of Washington
for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Heather Lakey
EdCAP, Associate of Arts
“My transition into college was easy and exciting.”
Why Edmonds CC? The EdCAP program allowed me to get my diploma and credits for my AA, all at no cost to me.
Why now? It was a way to finish up high school and get ahead at the same time.
Best college experience Getting to travel to Washington D.C. I had the chance to be president of a club that traveled to Washington D.C for high school credit.
Where did you go for help? EdCAP helped out a lot. From the instructors to the advisors, they all want to see you succeed. They also made my transition into college easy and exciting.
Best advice for new students Stay on top of your homework and don't forget to make time for some fun.
On my iPod Home by Michael Buble
Movie The Notebook
Traveled to The Philippines
Interests family, friends, church, shopping, movies and travel
College goal Bachelor’s degree
Dream job I could see myself using a degree in dental hygiene to help people here and in other parts of the world.
April Luce
EdCAP and Culinary Arts
“I hope to be an executive chef at a fine dining restaurant.”
Why Edmonds CC? the EdCAP program
Why now? When my parents found EdCAP, we agreed that it sounded like the perfect opportunity for me to finish high school and have the option to continue with college courses.
Working at the Lynnwood Convention Center in catering and as a cook
Best college experience environmental science classes with David Breed — He is the best teacher I've ever had. When a teacher is passionate about what he or she is teaching, it makes you want to learn that much more.
Favorite class Acrylic Painting–Art 150. It was a huge challenge for me and I enjoyed pushing myself to do something totally different.
Where I go for help my adviser, Kari Schlemmer, was always available and willing to work with me. She made sure that I was successful and she was very supportive, and tough on me when she needed to be.
Advice for new students Find an appropriate balance between school and the rest of your daily obligations. Make priorities and use the resources around you.
Movie Drop Dead Gorgeous
Book Vice Magazine's Do's and Don'ts
Video game Zelda-Ocarina of Time (on Nintendo 64) and Mario Kart (on Game Cube)
What’s next? I hope to one day be an executive chef at a fine dining restaurant.
College goal Staying motivated and finishing my culinary arts degree at Edmonds CC.
Doreen Lutwin
Adult Basic Education, Early Childhood Education
“I’m interested in working with autistic children.”
After graduating high school, Doreen Lutwin’s friends tried to convince her to go on to college. “But it just wasn’t what I was into at the time,” she said. Nine years later though when a family friend recommended she try Edmonds Community College, Lutwin was ready. She was working at a job that “wasn’t me” when she really wanted to work with special needs children. To pursue her calling, she needed further education. “I knew math was the thing that could block me from being here(at college),” she said. Instead of letting that stop her, Lutwin began taking classes in the Adult Basic Education program to get the help she needed. “A lot of people don’t know that the ABE classes are for people preparing to move on to other college classes, as well as for people trying to get their GED.” The first day of class wasn’t easy, but once she got over that hurdle she was hooked. “My teacher was very caring and supportive. She made sure I knew where her office was, and I went there continually when I needed help,” she said. Now Lutwin is taking classes towards her Early Childhood Education certificate at Edmonds Community College with plans to pursue a two-year degree. “Maybe I’ll even continue on to a four-year university. That would be amazing,” she said.
Linda McLean
Adult High School Completion
"Going to this college gives me a real sense of accomplishment, and is a great example to my children about overcoming adversity and moving forward."
McLean started her career as a dental assistant but for the last 13 years her job title has been, "mom." She has two children, ages 11 and 13, still living at home. Since she expects them to go to college, she's set a goal to earn a degree herself. Linda earned her adult high school completion diploma and has been inspired to complete her associate's degree. "It isn't easy, but it is fulfilling," she says.
Angela Moe
Adult High School Completion, Associate of Arts
"All the resources on campus made my college career easier." scholarship recipient
Why Edmonds CC? close to home and it has a clean, pretty campus
Why now? When my youngest daughter started elementary school, I didn't want to have to go back to an $11 an hour sales job with no opportunity for advancement.
Before college stay-at-home mom
Responsibilities children, school and work
Working as Executive Officer for Clubs (Student Government)
Where do you go for help? Services for Students with Disabilities helped me overcome my test anxiety and TRIO-Student Support Services. Once I found these resources life became great. I couldn't finish my college career without them.
Advice for new students find ways to get connected to your college. It really
has blessed me financially, mentally and socially
Interests I love to dance, sing, go to church, travel and hang out at the beach.
Movie A Cinderella Story
What's next? transfer to University of Washington-Bothell for a bachelor's degree in business
Dream job? a great one that can help me put my kids through college
Nicole Phaysith
EdCAP, Associate of Arts
“Edmonds CC just feels right.”
Why Edmonds CC? Great, resourceful enviornment.
Why now? Maybe it's been programmed into my mind all my life, but it just feels right.
Biggest Challenge: My biggest challenge was probably taking on too much at once (academically) and obtaining a job in addition. It's not as easy as overachieving students like to think :)
Working at A couple places!
Best college experience Meeting the people I have and knowing that they're now lifetime friends.
Favorite class English 105, because I found it fun to make my own claims and find my own reasoning for them.
Instructor Melody Schneider, for sticking through everything and kicking me when I needed it.
Advice for new students Have an open mind, get your attitude set for new beginnings.
On my iPod Coldplay
College goal Bachelors Degree in Journalism/mass communications
Dream job News reporter, political correspondent
Michael Steele
GED
“It was a really enjoyable experience.”
Why Edmonds CC? To earn my GED, it seemed a million times harder to get a new job without at least a GED.
Why now? After 20 years as a journey level cabinetmaker, the company I was working for moved out of state. I decided to stay here and learn a new trade, do something different.
Favorite instructor Liz Spring, she was very supportive.
What’s next? I finished my GED and was taking some soldering and cabling classes and then I found work at a machine shop.
Naomi Takami
ESL student, Brazil
“I had many good experiences.”
Why Edmonds CC? Because my sister studied in the ESL Program 10 years ago and her English is great.
How were your classmates? very committed to learn and improve their English skills. I felt motivated to study harder.
How were your instructors? I could feel that all of my teachers love what they do and they are always willing to help you.
Best college experience I learned how to use "every day English,” how to ride the bus to go to many places, ask questions if you are lost, and how to communicate with people outside the campus.
What’s next? study paralegal at Edmonds Community College
Santi Wibawantini
English for Academic Purposes
“My first quarter was really enjoyable.”
Why Edmonds CC? It was my dream to study in the U.S.
Why now? to first improve my writing and reading skills so I can earn my Master‘s degree
Before Edmonds CC I finished my Bachelor‘s degree in psychology at a university in Indonesia.
Favorite class EAP classes because the instructors know how to adapt and teach international students who come from different countries
Quote “Nothing is easy, but nothing is impossible.”
Advice for new students always try and never give up
Interests exercise and meditation, reading, writing poems, and cooking different kind of foods
College goal Master’s degree
Dream job elementary school counselor
Profiles in the Art of Living Santi’s portrait and her essay about her college goals and experience is on display in Mountlake Terrace Hall lobby. This profile is an excerpt of that essay.
Photo by student Lauren Morrow
