Discover Our Students’ Experiences Through Their Own Words: Sommer Isdale

“I have always been interested in helping other people, both kids and adults. I looked for classes that might help me explore this interest, and I came across Introduction to Conflict Dynamics. At first, I wasn’t exactly sure what this class was about or what mediation even meant, but after completing it, I have a full understanding of how I can help not only others with problems but myself as well.

“The best part about the class was the fact that I gained so much knowledge in such a short amount of time. I thought the eight-hour class days would drag, but unexpectedly they flew by and left me wanting to learn more! This class definitely opened my eyes to the world of mediation and influenced which path I would like to walk down, regarding not only my career but everyday life.

“I would recommend this class to everyone, even if it’s not in your major. The best part is that you can apply it to your own life and use it to improve conflict you may be having with your own family and friends. By taking this class, I earned a Conflict Management Specialist certificate and became a better person all around.” Sommer Isdale graduated from Harker Heights High School in Harker Heights, Texas, as an early honor graduate in June 2008.

For six years, she was a Presidential Service Award winner, having volunteered more than 200 hours each year to the Special Olympics. She earned a certificate in Conflict Management from El Centro.

A student with a red jacket poses for a photo in a downtown setting

Stephanie Gutierrez

Culinary Student

“At El Centro’s Culinary and Hospitality Institute, I’m learning how to plan a menu and use time management in the kitchen. Now with SkillsUSA, it’s teaching me to get where I want to go.”

Culinary and Pastry Arts

Albert Pantoja III

Senior Accountant American Home Mortgage Servicing

“My experience was really good; I learned a lot about different types of loans, underwriting and loan origination. The program gave us a broad overview from the get-go. I didn’t have any previous experience in mortgage banking at all, so it really helped me to prepare for changing jobs into the industry.”

Banking and Finance

Tammy White

Project Manager Verizon Telecom

“The most important thing I learned in my education was a sense of accomplishment and purpose, and that nothing is impossible as long as I am willing to expend the effort to reach my goals. I have been promoted a number of times in recent years, into positions of more and more responsibility as a direct result of my education.”

Business, Business and Management