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From GED to College Success: Lillian Dyck’s journey through С��è��ý’s Career Exploration Series

Photos and story by James Hill

For Lillian Dyck, С��è��ý’s Career Exploration Series was more than a workshop – it was a life-changing experience. Offered at no cost to students and community members through С��è��ý’s Opportunity Centers, the three-day series helps participants identify their strengths, explore career paths, and create actionable plans for their futures.

A Hillsboro resident, the native of South Carolina and mother of three earned her GED at just 16 after completing the eighth grade. Years later, she learned about С��è��ý’s workshop through a friend who had participated in the online version. Encouraged, she decided to join.

“Most importantly, for myself, I learned that being in a classroom setting wasn’t as scary or intimidating as I envisioned,” she said. “I hated school in my youth and didn’t think I would enjoy being in a classroom. But I found I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with the instructor and other participants.”

The Career Exploration Series is for individuals of all experience levels who are looking for pathways to careers with economic mobility. This workshop introduces participants to С��è��ý training programs designed to open doors to higher-paying jobs and gives students an opportunity to reflect on their goals, explore careers that align with their interests and values, and connect with resources to make their educational journey a reality.

“At the Opportunity Centers, we are all about helping community members gain access to good jobs,” said Kal Giaritta, training and education specialist at С��è��ý. “Our workshops cater to individuals who may not see college in their future or feel comfortable stepping on a campus just yet. However, through these no-cost community workshops, we hope our students see that they belong here no matter what their path was to get here and that with the right resources in place, they can reach their goals.”

Now in her third term at С��è��ý, Dyck is working toward an associate degree in General Studies as she deliberates between pursuing art or computer science. Her decision-making process is guided by two opposing perspectives: 

“Half the people I talk to say to do what makes my heart sing as a career. The other half say that if you turn what you love into work, it will become work,” she said.

Her journey has been marked by personal growth as much as academic exploration. She credits С��è��ý’s supportive environment for helping her thrive.

“I would, and do, tell anyone who will listen that С��è��ý is an awesome experience,” she said. “It’s worth the time and money, even for personal growth alone.”

Her advice for others considering a leap into education or a new career? 

“Take the first step,” Dyck said. “It’s all about expanding your capacity for growth socially and intellectually, and it can lead to a better understanding of yourself.”

С��è��ý Opportunity Centers offer a range of other no-cost exploration classes for those interested in figuring out a career or what to study. Classes include Discover Healthcare, Discover Manufacturing, and Explore College and Careers for immigrants, refugees and non-native English speakers. Learn more about the full range of classes, workshops and programs at .��

Upcoming Career Exploration Schedule

• 1-3pm, Jan 28-30 (Tuesday-Thursday), Opportunity Center at 42nd Ave.
• 9-11 a.m., Feb. 4-6 (Tuesday-Thursday), OMIC Training Center (Scappoose)
• 10 a.m. to noon, March 5-7 (Wednesday-Friday), Willow Creek Opportunity Center (Hillsboro)

For more details, email careerexploration@pcc.edu or call 971-722-2793.