Grad uses WCC throughout educational, professional career
Edward Szurek has a long history with Washtenaw Community College. He started at Washtenaw Technical Middle College in 2002, his junior year of high school, and soon progressed into college level courses.
“Attending WTMC gave me a tremendous jump-start,” Szurek said of the nationally ranked high school. “It was absolutely beneficial to my education.”
That’s where he received his first exposure to computer networking and the college’s Cisco program. It was a perfect marriage between his long-standing love for technology and his drive to obtain a fulfilling career.
“One of the advantages of WCC is the agility they have to adapt to new technologies and revamp coursework accordingly,” Szurek said. “Getting to see and work with new technology was interesting in a way nothing else had been for me before.”
Career Success
Szurek gradated from WCC in 2006 with his Associate of Applied Science in Computer Networking and works full-time for Unisys, a global information technology company. He is currently enrolled in Eastern Michigan University’s bachelors program for technology management.
“I will finish my degree in the next two years thanks to the articulation agreement that WCC has in place with EMU,” Szurek said. “I only need to complete 30 credits. It’s just another way WCC has helped me.”
His involvement with the college doesn’t stop at coursework. Szurek continues professional development by completing certifications for his work at the college’s Certification Center.
“I owe a lot of who I am professionally to WCC,” he said.
Community College Value
Whether it’s the award-winning high school, college degree courses or professional certifications, WCC has supported Szurek’s success every step of the way.
“The value you get by coming to WCC is unbeatable,” Szurek said. “Class sizes are smaller and you get more one-on-one time with instructors who have been in the field. You can’t beat the experience.”