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Graduation Highlights Rio Employee’s Life Journey
By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Commencement is a time for celebrating hard-earned achievements and academic success. For Rio Salado College employee Tanya Brauer, it is also a recognition of coming full circle in her life journey.
“Rio Salado became a part of my life when I participated in the incarcerated re-entry program,” Brauer said. “In the beginning, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study, but I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity.”
Brauer graduated this week with an associate degree in computer technology. When she began her Rio journey, she started with a course in Computer Usage and Applications and went on to complete two certificates.
“When I finished the Computer Usage and Applications certificates, it made me think how much technology has influenced our daily lives – especially during COVID,” Brauer said. “I decided to study further in computer technology because I know there is a demand for this kind of experience.”
Bolstered by her initial success, Brauer applied for a part-time position at Rio Salado’s Thomas location.
“As a part-time support staff, I continued my education by joining the online classes for my associate degree in computer technology, and eventually gained a full-time position,” Brauer said.
Brauer enjoys using what she has learned to assist students she encounters in her position as an administrative specialist.
“It has been a wonderful experience for me to be a student and to apply my personal experience with potential students who may be contemplating registering for adult education,” she said.
Brauer shared a few tips for future online students.
“Keep pushing through and take a risk on yourself,” she said. “Ask all the questions you need to make yourself feel confident that you are taking the right steps. Also, take advantage of tutors and advisors who will guide you along the way. I had great academic advisors who created a plan for me from start to finish.”
Brauer plans to continue her education and complete a bachelor’s degree in administration or operations management.
“My ultimate goal is to reach a high level of management and not only use my personal experience and knowledge but to help other people reach their professional goals,” Brauer said.
She is grateful that Rio Salado College helped her begin this chapter of her life, both academically and professionally.
“It almost seems like Rio chose me,” Brauer said. “It has been so beneficial to study for online classes, and a plus to be part of the Rio Salado operations team. This entire experience has helped me build the confidence I need to succeed.”