Thirteen Years in the Making: Finding Momentum Through Career Pathways & STEP
Posted by katie.weibel
When she first enrolled at Portland Community College more than a decade ago, she didn’t imagine it would take 13 years to finish her degree. But her journey proves exactly what PCC’s Career Pathways & STEP program is all about: you can start anywhere — and with the right coaching, you can keep going.
She began at Portland Community College in 2011/2012, fresh out of high school and confident in her computer skills. After a year, she left school to work full time, moving from job to job in search of stability. “I got sick of going job to job,” she shares. “I wanted a steady career — something I could take anywhere.”
That desire led her back to PCC to pursue a degree in Cybersecurity. Technology had always been an interest, and she saw the field as a path to stability and freedom — especially the possibility of remote work that would allow her to travel, explore new places, and even work abroad. “I can’t imagine my life sitting in one place,” she says. “I want a career that lets me see the world.”
Returning to school after more than a decade hasn’t been without challenges. Programming courses have pushed her outside her comfort zone, but supportive instructors and weekly tutoring have made a difference. “I’ve had really good luck with teachers this term,” she says. “They walk you through it and want you to succeed.”
Still, one of the most impactful parts of her journey hasn’t been a class — it’s been coaching.
When she walked into the Southeast Campus to ask about going back to school, she connected with the Career Pathways & STEP program. There, she met her coach, Michelle.
“Michelle has been great — really easy and nice to talk to. I can’t say enough good things about her,” she says. “She pushes me to advocate for myself. If a teacher doesn’t respond, she encourages me to follow up. She’s always helping me figure out the next right step.”
Through the STEP program, Kayla has received more than academic guidance. From scholarship opportunities to career connections to practical supports, she’s felt backed every step of the way. Most importantly, she’s felt safe.
“Michelle has made me feel very safe. Not judging me at all. I hope everyone who gets a coach can feel that same way — like they can truly express who they are.”
Her advice to other students considering the PCC Career Pathways & STEP program?
“Stay on top of your email. Go to your monthly meetings. Don’t hold back — talk to your coach about how you’re really feeling. They’re there to help you and guide you. Go all in and take advantage of everything.”
She also encourages students who feel overwhelmed to build balance into their schedules. Taking a ceramics class helped her meet new people, connect with instructors, and relieve stress. “At some point, you have to have fun with it too,” she says. “It takes you out of the stress.”
Now working toward completing her CIS degree with a focus on Cybersecurity, she’s motivated by the bigger picture: a career with stability, flexibility, and growth. In a few years, she sees herself working remotely, continuing to travel, and building a life that blends purpose and freedom.
She describes her journey in four words: long, eventful, challenging — and worthy.
“At the end of it all, you’re going to be so happy you completed it,” she says. “I’m a returning student of over 13 years. But I know when I’m done, it will all be worth it. It will all come together in the end.”
Her story is a reminder that there’s no single timeline for success. Whether you’re just starting out or returning after years away, coaching matters — and at PCC, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.
