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Channel 12 News
December 2, 2009
Jodi Castillo is one of many who faced a tough decision a few months ago.
I was laid off from my job," she said. "It was the third time I was laid off in nine years and I decided I had to do something different."
At that point she made the tough decision to go back to school.
"I was really apprehensive about going to college," she said. "I've obviously been out of school for several years."
Castillo heard about a program at North Hennepin Community College called College Prep. It's designed to help students brush up on their skills before jumping into their first semester of college.
"Our goal is to help students be successful," said Terry Jaakkola, program coordinator. "We have seen a real increase in our student population because of the economy."
Jaakkola says many students don't know how to apply, where to find financial aid, or even if their skills are sharp enough for college.
That's where College Prep comes in. The program offers a support system that is in high demand.
"This program gave me the confidence to go to school," she said. "It is a little nerve-racking but I have to tell you I am proud of the accomplishments I've made so far."
Jaakkola expects the free program, which helps about 60 students, will continue to grow.
"Once word gets out about this, our population will increase there is no doubt about it."
If you're interested in the College Prep at North Hennepin Community College, call 763-488-0445.
Video clip of Channel 12 Newscast
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