The Impact of Giving

While attending North Montco Technical Career Center, Riley learned about Williamson College of the Trades from his carpentry teacher, a Williamson alumnus he greatly admired. Williamson’s tuition-free model appealed to Riley and his family, and he was excited about the opportunity to further develop his skills at a trade college. Getting accepted into Williamson made Riley’s parents and sisters very proud, and they remain grateful as they see him making the most of his educational opportunities.

WHY THE TRADES?
Riley developed an early interest in carpentry, which led him to enroll in a technical high school. He never considered attending a traditional college. In fact, Williamson was the only institution to which he applied for his continuing education. He says, “I know I put all my eggs in one basket, and I’m so grateful that it worked out.”

TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT
Riley’s freshman and sophomore years in high school were overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He remembers being lazy and sluggish during that time, only doing the bare minimum in class. Once he came to Williamson, he felt a complete change. He says, “I started paying attention in class and got involved helping others, too. Williamson has impacted my character in so many positive ways.”

EMBRACING THE ROUTINE
Riley appreciates many aspects of his Williamson education, particularly the structured routine it offers. He shares, “I’ve grown a lot from the discipline they teach, and the time management skills I’m developing. Compared to high school, I’m on top of things now, often finishing assignments before they’re due.” Riley wakes up earlier than required to go to the gym, which allows him extra time in the afternoon to attend Bible study sessions. He adds, “I never would have imagined being this disciplined before. It’s like my whole mindset has flipped upside down since enrolling here at Williamson.”

THE WILLIAMSON DIFFERENCE
Summing up his Williamson experience so far, Riley reflects, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I would do a million times over. There is no other place that could have helped me build my character the way that Williamson has.”

WORDS OF WISDOM
Some of the best advice Riley received during his first two years at Williamson came from a senior named Victor Valentine. Victor told him, “Always keep your head up. Even if today doesn’t look promising, tomorrow brings a different day.” Riley considers Victor one of the many great mentors who have supported him throughout his time at Williamson.