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Empowering Agricultural Education: The Journey of Carlos Marquez

In a remarkable transformation over the past decade, Carlos Marquez has advanced from day laborer to operations manager at Live Oak Farms in California’s San Joaquin Valley. He is not only thriving in his professional role but also pursuing academic growth as a full-time student at Merced College.

Marquez participates in a pilot initiative funded by a federal grant, designed to enhance educational opportunities in agriculture. This competency-based curriculum allows him and his peers to gain vocational skills at no cost. The program focuses on practical, hands-on training rather than relying solely on conventional classroom education, covering key fields including agriculture, education, and health care.

“We recognize that the traditional educational model can feel outdated. Our aim is to equip students with the necessary skills for 21st-century careers,” stated Chris Vitelli, president of Merced College, who spearheaded the development of this innovative program.

According to Vitelli, the uniqueness of this program lies in its ability to allow students to earn while they learn. Statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics reveal that over 40% of full-time college students hold jobs during their studies. However, this juggling act often leads to a 20% decrease in their likelihood of completing their degrees, as highlighted by research from the American Educational Research Association.

As a non-traditional student, Marquez benefits from a stable income, earning approximately $1,300 per week, which is crucial for him as a 32-year-old father of two. “You get in, gain the training, and then you just keep on building from there,” Marquez shared, reflecting on his educational journey.

Currently, there are over 1,000 similar programs across the United States, with 82% of institutions anticipating growth in this area, according to the American Institutes for Research. “It’s our responsibility to respond to the needs of students, rather than expecting them to adapt to an outdated system,” Vitelli emphasized.

Marquez’s academic path began at 18 with traditional college; however, he found it unfulfilling and financially unviable once his scholarships expired. Today’s program provides him the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized certificate, reigniting his motivation to succeed. “As a first-generation college student, achieving this and being a role model for my daughters is incredibly important to me,” Marquez expressed.

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