Jaden Jones knew one thing after high school: the traditional path wasn’t working for him. Online college courses left Jaden feeling disconnected from his peers and discouraged about pursuing an education, leaving his next steps unclear.
Then came Step Year at WMCAT, a place where curiosity is valued and “I don’t know” is a good place to start. Through industry and educational site visits, Jaden found space for self-discovery alongside other young adults also searching for paths that fi t them. “I really love all the people in my class […] Being with them takes the pressure away from what’s going on outside.”
Step Year encouraged Jaden to explore who he is and what matters to him, helping him embrace uncertainty with optimism.
Inspired by a visit to the Grand Rapids Fire Department, he is now considering a career in firefighting and hopes to share the same support he found with his cohort as he steps boldly into this new future.
