Name: Lesya Hoover
Program: Digital Design
Expected Graduation Date: March 2007
Current Employer and Job Title: Photographer, Rock Solid Photography

When Lesya came to the United States, she had to completely change her life. One of the questions she faced was what profession to choose. Lesya already had a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics from a university in the Ukraine, but wanted to try a different path.

"I have heard a lot about tech schools from my mother-in-law, who used to work for one. I learned that tech schools offer hands-on training and focus on such important things as preparation for the workforce and employability skills." Her interest in photography led her to the Digital Design program at Winter Park Tech. "I have come to realize that I have found my true calling and that being a designer and photographer is something I really enjoy. It changed the whole perspective of my life, because to do something you like and to get paid for it – what could be better?"

Lesya has enjoyed her experiences at Winter Park Tech, especially the hands-on training. She has been learning how to use different software utilized by graphic designers. "We do a lot of actual client projects. I have learned a lot about the graphic design field, met different people who work in the field, and gotten first-hand knowledge from them about the industry and its trends. And you should see our computers and printers and very nice cameras!"

According to Lesya, the "wonderful teachers, the school administration and staff" have helped her get closer to the reality of her new profession, especially her teacher. "Teachers play the most important role in the educational process and can not be replaced with anything else. I want to stress that Winter Park Tech has teachers that are not only very knowledgeable, but care a lot about their students and support them in many ways. The teacher for our Digital Design class, Mrs. Carol Jackson, is one of the best teachers I met. She has made a difference in many students’ lives."

"Winter Park Tech is one of the best schools I’ve ever attended, with a dedication to giving students the best education possible and a lot of practical experience. It sounds strange, but when class is over, nobody wants to leave. Everybody is interested in what they are doing and we have a wonderful group of people, so it’s fun!"