Not only is Joseph a senior at Ironwood High School, he is also a student at Glendale Community College, thanks to the Dual Enrollment and ACE (Achieving College Education) programs. This means very long days for Joseph, who has his first class of the day at 7 a.m., with his last one ending at 7 p.m. His focus is on computer science and cybersecurity. Through his hard work and long hours, he has already earned seven CCLs from GCC, and he is just getting started.
Even though he has had many job offers, thanks to his cybersecurity skills, he has decided to take advantage of the Information Technology bachelor’s degree program being offered at Phoenix College. After graduating from GCC and Ironwood in May, Joseph will start taking summer classes at Phoenix College. “I looked at ASU as well as the University of Arizona and determined that going to GCC and Phoenix College were the better options. Staying in the Maricopa County Community College District was an easier process, and made for a smoother transition,” commented Joseph.
Although schoolwork takes up most of his time, Joseph does find time to pursue various interests, one of which is building models of famous structures. Among the items he has built include a 20’ tall replica of the Eiffel Tower and a 15’ tall model of Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. His next project is a replica of the White House.
When asked what keeps him motivated, Joseph stated, "My intention behind this journey was to set a big goal and accomplish it. This ties into my attitude towards life, which is to take on new challenges and see what they hold." Joseph’s long-term plans include completing his degree at PC and then pursuing his PhD in Networking with either CalTech or UC Irvine.