Achievements of PCC Prep Students in 2008 - 2009
We're proud of the achievements of our PCC Prep students! We believe that although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.
In 2008 - 2009, 1346 students worked toward their goals.
Gateway to College
- Our Goal:
- diploma and transition to college or career
- Our Achievements:
-
- 381 students served in Gateway
- 38 students earned their diploma
- 3.11 average GPA of students earning diploma
- 96 average number of college credits earned by graduates
GtC Grad: Tonya McGonigal
From High School Student to University Graduate
"I started the Gateway to College program when I was 16 and graduated four years later with a diploma and an Associate’s Degree. I am currently enrolled at Portland State University and am excited to graduate in March 2010 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management and another in General Business Management. Gateway to College gave me the opportunity to challenge myself and achieve more than I ever thought possible. Through the experiences I had in Gateway to College I grew into a responsible and successful adult."
Multicultural Academic Program
- Our Goal:
- advanced level of language proficiency and transition to Gateway or YES!
- Our Achievements:
-
- 308 students served in MAP
- 67% students who attended three consecutive terms moved up one stage of language proficiency
- 20 students moved to either Gateway or YES GED programs
- 9 former MAP students earned either a diploma or a GED
From Little English to a Bachelor’s Degree and a Great Job

Vera Zhakharova
"I came to the United States at the age of 17 from Moldova. My level of English was so low that I could barely understand what was going on around me. None of my family members spoke English. There was no time for books and classes. I had to work to support my extended family. I was happy at my fist job where I made minimum wage. However, very soon I realized that I would not be able to achieve any successes without more education. I started taking MAP ESL classes. I wanted to improve my English skills, earn my GED, and then enroll into the Gateway to College Program where I could get my high school diploma and college credits simultaneously. Ultimately, I wanted to earn a Bachelor Degree in Accounting. The MAP program and my hard work and persistence have paid off! I am now 25 years old, have BA in Accounting, and earn $60,000 per year as an accountant. In January 2010, I will start classes at PSU to earn my Master’s Degree."
Youth Empowered to Succeed
- Our Goal:
- GED certificate and transition to college or other post secondary options
- Our Achievements:
-
- 657 students served in YES
- 284 students earned GEDs
- More than 90% of the YES students achieved a passing score on each of the five GED tests.
- YES! students have higher average GED test scores than their peers nationwide
YES! Student Charts His Future

Saber Burruss
"I’m a part of the YES program. When I came to PCC to get my GED, I didn’t have much money for classes or the GED testing. The YES program helped me pay for my testing and give me insight towards what I can do after getting my GED. I planned on getting my GED and getting a job right after; however being a part of the YES program has helped me see how PCC can help me further my education. Now, I’m debating whether I should stay at PCC and take more classes verses getting a job right away. In the end, the YES program will show you your options about staying in college and getting further in your life."