This is “J” – also known as Jaleel Martin. He’s training in the certified nursing program at the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center in Reno, NV.

“Honestly Job Corps basically helped me push forward towards my goal to becoming a nurse [and] the goals that I have set forth for myself personally,” says J.

“Job Corps is able to provide numerous things and ways for me to accomplish those goals.”

J grew up in Las Vegas where he graduated high school. He tried college and many different jobs, but he felt that something needed to change. “I wasn’t getting anywhere, I felt that if I came to Job Corps, I could get further than I was getting in my past life, because when I came to Job Corps I found a new chapter in my life.”

He’s now proud of working hard toward getting the proper certifications necessary to enter a nursing school in the future.

“The thrill of nursing. You don’t always know what to expect. It’s unpredictable. You may see some things that some people may not be able to handle, in the way you may be able to handle it. I like the fact that every day is something new. I like to help people. I like to know that every day that I’m waking up and I’m going to impact somebody’s life in a positive way. If I’m going to make someone’s life different and make someone’s life happier, then I’m definitely all for it.”

He’s proud of his accomplishments and so is his family. “My family is definitely proud of me. They’re excited to see where I’m going to go after Job Corps. They have supported me, and my goal is to eventually take care of my family. That’s my motivation.”

And as J always says, “I think I made a good choice!”