Weston Swint is a Tahlequah, OK native, Talking Leaves Job Corps graduate, and a member of the United States Army. Swint did not feel traditional high school education was for him so he left during his junior year and entered the TLJC program. “I graduated with a degree in Business Office Technology,” said Swint. “I was also able to get my high school diploma while at TLJC.” After graduating, Swint worked for Cherokee Nation in their Tribal Training program for a short time and then landed a restaurant job but didn’t feel he was working at his potential, so he enlisted in the Army. “I shipped out for basic training in March, 2020 and completed that in July of 2020,” said Swint. “It was tough at first, getting used to the Army way of life, and then we were hit with Covid-19, and that changed a lot of our training,” said Swint. “The drill sergeants were very patient and guided us through those challenges.” After completing basic training, Swint moved into Advanced Individual Training, AIT, which is job training to prepare individuals for a career in the Army. “I’ve been stationed at Fort Drum in New York for the last year and a half, and I’m listed as 31-Bravo Military Police,” said Swint. “As an MP, there are many duties we train for and many services we provide on a daily basis. Being a member of the military wasn’t easy at first for Swint, but he credits his time at TLJC for preparing him for success in whatever endeavor he chooses to pursue in the future. “When I went to TLJC, I was just expecting to get my high school diploma, but they helped me with that, plus assisted me with a degree in Business Office Technology,” said Swint. “There is no way my life would be like it is now. I dropped out of school but, because of TLJC, I have a career and a chance at a good future. They helped me realize my potential. I have told many of my friends who are struggling with education and work that TLJC helped me and it can help them too.”