Computer Sciences

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With a high stress job in social work, student Laura Hofer knew she needed a career change. After having worked in the health field for several years she decided to change it up and look at computer science, after doing some research chose Cybersecurity at Gwinnett Tech.

She is currently earning her degree in Cybersecurity, along with a Certificate as a Cyber Crime Specialist. “I chose Cybersecurity because the field is in high-demand with great pay. I chose Gwinnett Tech because the College is recognized as one of the nation’s top producers of associate degree graduates in Computer and Information Sciences.”

“I also thought the field to be not only interesting but completely necessary in today’s society.” Graduating in December 2017, Laura plans to enter the Cybersecurity field and prevent cybercrime from happening.

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Paul Truong has always been passionate about technology and curious how it touched people’s lives. After talking with others about Gwinnett Tech and reading about Gwinnett Tech’s Cybersecurity program, he decided to enroll. “I believe for one to succeed in IT, they’d have to be passionate about technology.”

“I am very happy with my decision to attend Gwinnett Tech. I chose Gwinnett Tech because it’s flexible and convenient for me to attend. My instructor Tony Tran, is extremely knowledgeable. Not only is he a great classroom instructor, but also became my mentor. I owe much of my success to him.”

“I would tell current and prospective students one thing, ‘The harder you work, the luckier you get.’ Meaning the harder you work, the more opportunities and experiences will come your way. During my time at Gwinnett Tech, I’ve joined the Information Security Association group, the Cybersecurity Competition Team, and attended multiple ‘outside’ of classroom functions relating to the Cybersecurity field. Students must immerse themselves in their field of study. If they do that, opportunities will present itself.”

Paul secured an IT Specialist position at Insight Global in Atlanta, Ga after he interned with Nanolumens in Peachtree Corners, Ga. “I truly believe it was the internship at Nanolumens that prepared me for my new position, Gwinnett Tech prepared me for this position with classroom and hands-on experience.”

Paul will graduate in December 2018 with an associate degree in Cybersecurity. Check out our Cybersecurity program.

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For Networking Specialist graduate Evan Gross, graduating from Gwinnett Tech meant more than getting a diploma: it meant achieving one more goal. Diagnosed with Aspergers/Autism in elementary school, Evan has worked his entire academic career to focus on tasks and assignments and be a successful student. After graduating from Brookwood High School, Evan enrolled at Gwinnett Tech, where he maintained the Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (HOPE) Scholarship and was a Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership nominee.

“Gwinnett Tech not only increased my knowledge, it also helped me with public speaking and interaction,” he said. “Preparing and giving the GOAL speech increased my confidence in public speaking.”

Evan praised Gwinnett Tech for their great reputation and placement history, as well as their wide range of computer programs and degrees. While a student, he had support from Disability Services and the Career Services Center. Thanks to his experience at Gwinnett Tech, he was prepared to interview and join the workforce after graduation.

Currently working at Eagle’s Landing Café & Grill, Evan is embracing the workforce environment, thanks to his employers’ and fellow employees’ support and encouragement. A proud alum of Gwinnett Tech, he plans to return and take more classes in the future.

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After graduating from high school, Jae Eom not only wanted to find an affordable college, but also one that would help him determine exactly what he wanted to do as a professional. Guided by the mentorship of his high school teachers, Jae enrolled at Gwinnett Technical College in the Networking Specialist program.

In addition to learning “real world” skills like work ethic, networking and money budgeting, Jae’s time as a student at Gwinnett Tech also showed him new career opportunities. “I feel like a door opened for me in graphic design, ever since I took a web design class. It opened a whole new world for me to play with.”

After graduating from Gwinnett Tech, Jae plans to pursue further education as a graphic design major. “Even though there is still room for improvement, one of the things I’m most proud of is my skills as an artist,” he said.

Using the foundation of his Networking Specialist degree, Jae hope to combine his interest in technology and computers with his affinity for art and design, and pave the way for a fulfilling career as a graphic designer.

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Bethany Wheeler isn’t waiting until graduation to get real-world experience. She’s already completed a graphic design/web development internship with the Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, assisted Lilburn Day Camp with their marketing design and photography needs, and won a Project Yellow Light Billboard Design Scholarship (her billboard debuted in Times Square and is now featured on digital billboards all over the United States).

She credits Gwinnett Tech with giving her the tools she needs to succeed. “I wasn’t even sure that college was right for me, but once here I quickly overcame those fears. Gwinnett Tech has been a great launching board for me.”

“My classes here have been wonderful,” she said. “Sometimes they get a little overwhelming, but whenever you find yourself in a sticky spot the instructors are always willing to help strengthen your understanding of the course content. I believe learning is a team sport, and at Gwinnett Tech you get the feeling you are part of a learning community.”

Bethany plans to attend a four-year college after graduating from Gwinnett Tech and pursue a graphic design degree. “I hope to get a career following school where I can use my creativity to deliver a fantastic product to customers or bosses that will exceed their expectations.”