The reason for my attending Project RIRAL’s Transition to College program is unexpected, but crucial.  I am 43 years old, and for one reason or another, I was not able to attend college out of high school.  Throughout the years, college and a degree was always in the back of my mind.  But, it is exactly were it stayed.  Between already being on my way with a vocational career, and the fact that I thought I was too old to return to school, I no longer considered school an option. 

However, about a year ago, situations came to be that I was approached with the opportunity to attend college. Yet, my apprehension was still a major deterrent. Fear of not being familiar with even basics academics was a large concern. That was when through an unexpected turn of events, I happened upon the Transition to College program.  This has been a life saver for me, the learning has been exceptional, and the support and encouragement that I needed to prepare for CCRI in the Spring has literally bridged the gap that I needed to transition to a higher level of education.

Gary Oliveira

September 2004