First off, I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to Ideal Institute of Technology. It's truly an incredible place for anyone looking to further their education. Honestly, I had never heard of Ideal until I began attending the school as part of a work activity through the Workforce New Jersey Program (WFNJ). At the time, my wife and I were part of a government-assisted program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Since we were unemployed, we were required to participate in a 35-hours-a-week work activity.

One of the counselors working with WFNJ mentioned that school could be an option instead of community service. That possibility intrigued me more than the alternative. I saw it as a chance to right my past educational wrongs. I thought, "Maybe I'll give myself another shot at this education thing."

I had heard of Atlantic Cape Community College and Stockton University, but when Ideal was brought up, something about the name caught my attention. I figured I'd try something different. I had no idea what to expect—yet my first visit completely captivated me. The staff was warm, polite, and genuinely helpful. On that very first day, I learned about computer motherboards. It might not sound like much, but that small piece of knowledge ignited a spark in me. It made me want to learn more.

Turning Curiosity into Capability

That one lesson gave me the confidence to enroll in Ideal's CompTIA A+ computer and cell phone course. Over time, I learned to repair iPad and iPhone screens by researching online and watching tutorials. One of the instructors introduced me to the basics of mobile repair and part sourcing. Once I understood the process, I ran with it.

My first repair was on an LG K7 phone with a shattered screen. I just happened to have a similar device at home, so I offered to swap the damaged screen using parts I already had. Ideal provided the necessary tools, and I followed a repair guide online. When the phone powered back on successfully, I was beyond excited. That was a huge personal victory.

I was so proud of my accomplishment that I posted about it on Facebook—and to my surprise, people started reaching out for repairs. What started as a school project turned into a side hustle and then into a real income stream.

A Pathway to Employment and Purpose

Eventually, I shared some before-and-after repair photos with my instructors. They were impressed. Before long, I was invited to be the main repair tech at two of Ideal's "Technothon" Fundraisers. Today, I'm officially employed at Ideal as a Cell Phone Repair Technician.

Looking back, it's hard to believe how far I've come. Growing up in Atlantic City, I faced more than my share of hardships and made some poor decisions that led to legal trouble. I lacked direction and didn't prioritize anything meaningful.

But today, I have a wife and three children who depend on me—and that changes everything. I have responsibilities now. I want to do better not just for them, but for myself. I want to prove that change is possible, no matter your background.

Hope, Opportunity, and a Second Chance

My experience at Ideal is living proof that a better future is possible. I seized an opportunity, and now I'm a walking testament to the phrase, "It's never too late." I still have goals to achieve, and I know Ideal will continue to help me accomplish them.

The most important thing I've learned is that we are all part of a team. We can all help each other succeed. If you have dreams and goals, I strongly encourage you to bring them to Ideal. You will not be disappointed.

Ideal Institute of Technology doesn't just teach skills—it changes lives.