was a web designer at a marketing firm when the company had to let all of its employees go. She saw the change as an opportunity to expand her knowledge in web development.

With the assistance of the transition program in Larimer County, she enrolled in the Computer Information Systems department at Aims last fall. “I taught myself web design, but realized that I needed more of a foundation in web development,” Roberts said. “Aims has given me more confidence.”

Roberts said she enjoys the sense of humor the CIS instructors bring to the classroom. “Computer science is not easy to learn,” she said. “The concepts are very challenging, but the instructors make it fun. They love what they do and it shows.”

Roberts had planned to get a job after earning her second certificate at Aims, but she already holds a year-long contract with a software development company. She tells others that she loves everything about Aims and felt welcomed by everyone, from the teachers to the students to the people at the lunch counter.

“Others may down-grade community colleges, but I just can’t agree,” she said. “People at community colleges seem to care more. They ensure your success and provide a strong foundation for your future.”