Every day, hardworking and dedicated Job Corps students complete their training and enter the workforce ready to succeed in their new careers and in life. Residents at MTC correctional facilities also work hard to overcome addictions and other challenges to turn over a new leaf in life. We caught up with just a few of them and encouraged them to share their stories with their local newspapers. Some of their incredible stories were published as opinion pieces. Click on the links below to read their inspiring stories.

Sierra Nevada Job Corps

Opinion: College is not the only answer by Christine Benzon

Reno Gazette Journal – June 24, 2021

Growing up, I was under the impression that college was the only option after high school. So, I went to college, but it wasn’t for me. After a few semesters…

Earle C. Clements Job Corps

Opinion: Do it well or not at all by Briana Gosier

The Atlanta Inquirer – June 28, 2021

Growing up, my great-grandmother would tell us, “Whether the task be great or small, do it well or not at all.” I have turned this saying into my life mantra. When I was younger, I knew I wanted something more for my life…

Atterbury Job Corps

Opinion: Job Corps gives us a fighting chance by Noah Harris

The Republic – June 30, 2021

I want to make a difference in the world. This desire came after riding in countless ambulances and spending many hours in the hospital with my godmother, who was a paramedic and licensed nurse. I didn’t want to become like everyone else in my small town…

Hartford Job Corps

Opinion: Job Corps provided a life-changing experience by Kemauli Brown

New Haven Register – July 12, 2021

When I came to America from Jamaica in 2014, I had no idea what to do with my life. I didn’t know where to go or how to go about doing it in a new and unfamiliar culture. Frankly, this new environment intimidated me…

Gadsden Correctional Facility

Opinion: Gadsden prison taught me how to survive by Robyn Kraholik Brandil

ECB Publishing – July 27, 2021

I was in prison for 20 years. I had a long time to reflect and figure out who I really was. I went to prison when I was 19, and the world had changed a lot since 1995…

Clearfield Job Corps

Guest Op-ed: Did you know Job Corps works?

Standard Examiner – July 30, 2021

Job Corps changed my life. It’s as simple as that. It taught me that investing in yourself is one of the smartest things you can do in your life.

Philadelphia Job Corps

Voices of our city: She keeps going back to Philly Job Corps – Here’s why

Philadelphia Weekly – August 12, 2021

When I tell my students I was in their shoes 23 years ago, they don’t believe me. But I was. When I was a teenager, things in my life began to get hard