Randall Dragstra turned to GRCC after serving in the U.S. Marines.
“I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do after I left the military, yet I knew I wanted to start my education,” he said. “GRCC was an easy pick for this as it was local and affordable.”
Classes here helped him decide on manufacturing engineering. He cites professor Scott Lampe as a mentor who has given him good advice for both inside and outside the classroom.
“I have had a great experience while at GRCC, especially with the hands-on learning that I get to do,” Dragstra said. “I also love the opportunity to meet other students and make friends along the way.”
Dragstra, who works in the part development and validation department at Kent Manufacturing Co., received financial help -- and encouragement -- from the Cascade Engineering Scholarship.
“Cascade Engineering has helped guide my feet on this path, and I can’t thank them enough for their support,” he said. “The scholarships have helped me tremendously with financial support, but also allowing me to see that someone is willing to endorse me and motivate me to keep pushing and focusing on my education.”
Dragstra plans to continue his education at Ferris State University’s Grand Rapids campus.
“I’ve been told that accomplishments, no matter how small, are something that you didn’t have before,” he said. “So getting a good grade or using something I learned in a practical application outside of school are big accomplishments for me.”