“Now I for sure want to further my education in accounting at one of the University of Alaska campuses and earn a bachelor’s degree.”

We don’t always know what we want to do in life. Sometimes figuring that out means getting our feet wet by trying something new. That’s exactly what Kawerak Vocational Training Scholar and AVTEC graduate Amber Ongtowasruk did!

Amber is a vocational training student who is graduating from AVTEC early this coming month. Amber has completed not only one, but two areas of study: Accounting Specialist and Administrative Assistant. Her program was set to end in May, but she has completed the objectives for both of her certificates early. We are very proud of the accomplishments she’s achieved!

Amber’s Story

“I first heard about AVTEC when I was in high school but didn’t go through with applying here (to AVTEC) until last year.” Amber stated she wanted to know what work she was qualified for, instead of guessing what she may or may not be able to do. “I wanted a job set … I wanted to make the start of my career that much easier.”

When asked why AVTEC Amber said “I’ve had families and friends come here and they’ve done well since they graduated from here, so I figure I might as well give it a try.” Through Kawerak’s Vocational Training Scholarship, she was able to focus on her motivation to pursue the opportunity instead of the cost of the program.

Amber said she was motivated by herself and her promise to her father. “I always told my dad before he passed away that I would at least try to apply here because I didn’t do well in college. He really wanted me to follow through. So, I decided that now would be a good time. The worst that could happen is they can say no.”

It wasn’t always easy to stick with the classes and complete the course. “I miss Nome and I miss my family” Amber said. However her previous experience with being away Mt. Edgecumbe (2014 Alumni)  and knowing that “my family would be very proud of me for sticking with my program” helps her with the transition and keeps her going when challenges arise. “They are already proud of me, but I can imagine how much more pride they will feel when I complete the program.”

Amber shared that as graduation approaches, she feels proud of herself and how far she’s come. She hopes that she can take what she’s learned and apply it in the workforce.

When asked what advice she would give to others considering higher education opportunities, she said, “Even if you are just a little bit interested in a program, just go for it! Go for whatever it is you are thinking about doing it. Learning more is better than not learning at all.”

Amber shares deep gratitude to her gram Arlene Soxie, parents Gerri Ongtowasruk &  the late Ron Ongtowasruk, siblings James, Tami, Cheryl, Shannon and Tiffany Ongtowasruk, best friends Sierra Brown, Gordon Iya, Celina Habros, Jerry Brower, and Kawerak staff members Nuna Katchatag, Kendra Takak, Chris Steppe, and Pam Cushman from the Higher Education Department!

We wish Amber the best of luck on her journey and express our support and congratulations!

 

Kawerak’s Vocational Training Program provides financial assistance to eligible applicants interested in attaining a certificate or degree from a vocational training or trade school program. Financial assistance is intended to enhance the applicant’s job skills and gain full-time employment.

Learn more at kawerak.org/vta or call us at 800-450-4341!