From Uncertainty to Opportunity: My Journey with Ideal Institute of Technology

First off, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Ideal Institute of Technology. It’s truly an incredible place for anyone looking to further their education. Honestly, I had never heard of Ideal until I began attending the school as part of a work activity through the Workforce New Jersey Program (WFNJ). At the time, my wife and I were part of a government-assisted program called Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Since we were unemployed, we were required to participate in a 35-hour-a-week work activity.

One of the counselors working with WFNJ mentioned that school could be an option instead of community service. That possibility intrigued me more than the alternative. I saw it as a chance to right my past educational wrongs. I thought, “Maybe I’ll give myself another shot at this education thing.”

I had heard of Atlantic Cape Community College and Stockton University, but when Ideal was brought up, something about the name caught my attention. I figured I’d try something different. I had no idea what to expect—yet my first visit completely captivated me. The staff was warm, polite, and genuinely helpful. On that very first day, I learned about computer motherboards. It might not sound like much, but that small piece of knowledge ignited a spark in me. It made me want to learn more.

Turning Curiosity into Capability

That one lesson gave me the confidence to enroll in Ideal’s CompTIA A+ computer and cell phone course. Over time, I learned to repair iPad and iPhone screens by researching online and watching tutorials. One of the instructors introduced me to the basics of mobile repair and part sourcing. Once I understood the process, I ran with it.

My first repair was on an LG K7 phone with a shattered screen. I just happened to have a similar device at home, so I offered to swap the damaged screen using parts I already had. Ideal provided the necessary tools, and I followed a repair guide online. When the phone powered back on successfully, I was beyond excited. That was a huge personal victory.

I was so proud of my accomplishment that I posted about it on Facebook—and to my surprise, people started reaching out for repairs. What started as a school project turned into a side hustle and then into a real income stream.

A Pathway to Employment and Purpose

Eventually, I shared some before-and-after repair photos with my instructors. They were impressed. Before long, I was invited to be the main repair tech at two of Ideal’s “Technothon” Fundraisers. Today, I’m officially employed at Ideal as a Cell Phone Repair Technician.

Looking back, it’s hard to believe how far I’ve come. Growing up in Atlantic City, I faced more than my share of hardships and made some poor decisions that led to legal trouble. I lacked direction and didn’t prioritize anything meaningful.

But today, I have a wife and three children who depend on me—and that changes everything. I have responsibilities now. I want to do better not just for them, but for myself. I want to prove that change is possible, no matter your background.

Hope, Opportunity, and a Second Chance

My experience at Ideal is living proof that a better future is possible. I seized an opportunity, and now I’m a walking testament to the phrase, “It’s never too late.” I still have goals to achieve, and I know Ideal will continue to help me accomplish them.

The most important thing I’ve learned is that we are all part of a team. We can all help each other succeed. If you have dreams and goals, I strongly encourage you to bring them to Ideal. You will not be disappointed.

Ideal Institute of Technology doesn’t just teach skills—it changes lives.