Nate Schirer is realizing his dream of becoming a digital media artist thanks to the Career-Life Engagement and Readiness Program. CLEAR was launched in August 2019 at San Juan College.
Nate Schirer is realizing his dream of becoming a digital media artist thanks to the Career-Life Engagement and Readiness Program (CLEAR). Launched in August 2019, the program assists students with physical or mental challenges to gain employment or continue their education. Schirer is from the program’s first cohort.
CLEAR program opens new doors
After graduating high school, he started college but faced challenges and took a few years off. He learned of the CLEAR Program through a family friend a month before it started and got his application submitted in time. He didn’t know the impact this program would have on his life. “The CLEAR Program was a godsend,” said his mother, Dorcas Schirer. “He’d been out of high school for a while and seeking direction in life.” CLEAR accepts 16 to 18 students each August. Participants complete the 42-credit hour program in four semesters, and it doesn’t just help students academically—it builds confidence!
Next steps
Since finishing CLEAR, Schirer started working on his Associate of Applied Science in Digital Media Arts and Design, is living in student housing, and got his driver’s license. “Living on campus is part of my journey of being independent,” Schirer explained. He chose the DMAD program because he likes the animation and filming industry and would like to turn this hobby into a career. Schirer is putting his digital media skills to work after interning at The Arc. He’s currently creating a video ad for their social media. Melissa Wilkins, store manager, shared what a delight Schirer was to work with, “When Nate came to intern with us, he immediately ran with it! He was inclusive and a strong helper. When new volunteers came to The Arc, he stepped up to show them around.” Schirer will graduate with his associate degree next semester and plans to transfer to a bachelor program. For more information about the CLEAR program, contact CLEAR Director, Kymber Mordecki, at 505-566-3476 or CLEAR@sanjuancollege.edu
