Sometimes We Need a Little Nudge

Taking the first step toward something new can be very intimidating. We may hesitate, even when we know we need to take that step so we can move forward with our lives. Many of us need encouragement or nudging from a friend or family member. In Kody Parker’s case it was his parents who did the nudging. He didn’t come to the College and Career Readiness Department at Cleveland Community College willingly. “My parents made me come.”

However, once he started coming, he says he liked it better than high school. He attended five days a week, working toward his adult high school diploma, which he has now earned. During that time, he also began taking a few extra classes at the College, including autobody.

Now that he’s finished high school Kody has decided to apply to the Firefighter Academy. His interest in firefighting may have been influenced by his dad’s career—he’s a full-time paramedic—and the fact that his dad is also a part-time firefighter. “He used to take me for rides in the fire truck.” Plus, Kody’s been a volunteer firefighter at Polkville Fire Department for two years.

“I want to do the Firefighter Academy after I turn 18. Then, I might study to be a diesel mechanic,” he says. “I’ll probably wait until after the academy to decide.”

Kody took the first step, with a little help from his parents, and now he is ready to keep going. Regardless of which career he chooses–firefighter, diesel mechanic, or something else–he’s moving forward, toward a better future.

Need to take the first step toward your high school diploma? Learn more about the College and Career Readiness program at https://clevelandcc.edu/continuing-education/finish-high-school/