After a NASA internship, leading campus groups, and earning her associate degree in engineering at the college, Alex Ritchie is completing her bachelor's degree at VCU and winning awards for her research.

Austin Mostoller turned to the college for an education that mirrored what he would face in the field as a paramedic.

Gervyn Fajardo Franco always loved science, but growing up in Guatemala caring for his quadriplegic father, a career in medicine seemed far out of reach. The college made it feel possible again.

Tanner Lester started taking classes at the college while still in high school; he leveraged his interests in drawing and design to become a lead draftsman for a housing developer.

After 22 years as a hairstylist, Tiffany Longest wanted a new career with a steady paycheck and benefits to support her family. She completed her certificate in welding and now works preparing and welding pipes for large construction projects.

After high school, Renato Arenas took a job as a mechanic because he didn't think he could afford college. But he wasn't happy, so he secured financial aid to start his education at Tyler, now Brightpoint. Now, he's a global IT analyst, helping companies with IT regulations and compliance.

The college gave painter Joanna Pottle a strong artistic foundation and the confidence to further her academic and professional career. Now, she's a Fulbright Scholar working in Krakow, Poland.

After retiring from the military, Derrick Branson volunteered in his children's school to spend time with them. That experience, and the Educate VA program, kicked off a second act of service: teaching.

Tyler gave Antonio Knoxx the information and tools he needed to start his own business. Now, he's helping Richmond businesses build their brands through graphic design, video and photography.

Madeline Chase knew she wanted to teach but she couldn't fathom the time and money it would take to become a grade school teacher. The college's early childhood program gave her practical skills to start her career as an educator quickly.