Success Stories

Associate Degree Program Graduate

As a former student of the CLOUT Program, this is my chance to express appreciation and gratitude to everyone involved in the program. CLOUT is a program built to help individuals who want to change their lives for the better through education, which in turn enables them to contribute to society. It was rewarding to be a part of a program that presents a solution for people who were not able to get a formal education. After being out of school for fifteen years and deciding to return, CLOUT was my "ticket" to self-improvement and a whole new outlook on life. As a result, I've become a better role model for my children. More importantly, I was able to show them, by example, the value of education.

It's a pleasure to say that I am currently working at Curtis Instruments with a wonderful group of people. I am having such a great time, and I am learning so much. Curtis is a company that allows me to be myself and also provides an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Thanks to the professors, faculty and fellow students at CLOUT, I am prepared to face the challenges in the work place.

Certificate Program Graduate

After my husband left, I had to be on welfare for a number of years, while my children were young. In 1997, I received a letter that stated "You are considered to be employable; report to the N.Y.S. Department of Labor." I went on the appointed day and time. Well, I looked for a job. I went everywhere that the Department of Labor sent me, plus to other places I found on my own. There weren't any jobs that I was qualified for; every place wanted computer skills. Finally, Mr. Garson from the Department of Labor told me to apply to the Office of Employment and Training. There, I was tested and told of available training programs. I insisted that I wanted computer training and skills. The counselor told me about the CLOUT Program, and I ran over to apply.

I received my 8 month certificate about a year ago. I am employed full-time and have been off welfare for some time. I support myself and my two children. Through the CLOUT Program, I've learned everything needed to help me succeed. I'm proud of myself. I even help with the new students in the Job Shadowing Program. They come and ask me questions about my job, school, and other concerns they may have. I found the Pace experience has changed my whole life and that of my family. To help further my education and my career, I have recently returned to school to earn my Associate Degree, and eventually, my bachelor's. And this time, I'm the one paying!

Certificate Program Graduate

I am a 1998 graduate of the CLOUT Program at Pace University. I am currently employed by MediaOne of New York in the capacity of Human Resources Assistant. My duties include: introducing new employees to the company; answering, monitoring, and tracking benefits situations; making direct contact with health care providers; and, most importantly, utilizing the computer applications skills I learned at Pace.

Before coming to the CLOUT Program, I did have previous job experience. However, circumstances, including a move to New York from Florida, forced me to depend on Social Services. I was approached to enter the program, and, fortunately for me, I did. Not only did my courses at Pace help ease my re-entrance into the corporate world, but they also provided me with new skills that are very much in demand in the business community.

I am very glad that the Department of Social Services weeded me out to participate in this program. I am also thankful for my education and to each and every one of the CLOUT instructors. With their guidance, I have been able to face the world of work with new skills and renewed confidence.

Certificate Program Graduate

I am a 22-year old single mother currently enrolled at Pace University. I started the CLOUT Program about a year ago to obtain my Certificate in Personal Computer Applications for the Office Professional. I did not start the program because the Department of Social Services made me participate in training. I did it because I wanted to continue my education and to give my 2-year old son, William, a better future.

After going to school for eight long months, graduation day finally arrived. For the first time in my life, I was really proud of myself. However, my brain was hungry for more knowledge. So, when I was offered the opportunity to continue studying toward my Associate's Degree, I did not hesitate to say "yes". I knew that if I passed this chance, I would be making a huge mistake.

My life completely changed since I started school. I've made so many friends, and the program gave me the education that I needed to become employable. For my internship, I worked at Philips Electronics for four months. The internship allowed me to utilize all the skills that I learned through CLOUT.

This January, Philips Electronics offered me a full-time job. I am earning $12 an hour as an accounting and purchasing clerk. I've finally got my foot in the door! Since then, I have been able to get off public assistance. Next month, I'll be moving into my very own apartment. Now, I am able to earn my own money to provide for my son. I know that the CLOUT Program can help others like me. It has been the best thing that's ever happened to me, and if I had to do it all over again, I would.