Advice to New Students from Alyssa, Class of 2025

My name is Alyssa Corbin, and I’m a 2025 graduate of the Health Assistant program. My home school was Ellwood, and I’m excited to share my journey with you!

When I first started at LCCTC, I had no idea how much this school would end up shaping me. I came here because I knew I wanted a career in healthcare—but I didn’t expect all the extra things that would come with it. At first, I wasn’t interested in clubs, leadership, or anything outside of just doing what I needed to do in class and heading home – and that was it. In fact, I avoided all additional activities. But over time, being at the CTC showed me that true growth happens when you step out of your comfort zone.

One of the most significant aspects of that growth stemmed from Peer Leadership. It didn’t just change me—it gave me the motivation I needed to become the best version of myself. If you had told me back when I was at Ellwood that I’d ever stand in front of a crowd of my peers, and their families, I would’ve laughed – but this essay stems from a speech I gave as a senior during the Peer Leadership banquet. And if you told me I would be able to share my story about how much I’ve grown? I probably would’ve thought you were crazy.

When I first came to Vo-Tech, I had that same attitude. Every time someone brought up Peer Leadership, I would roll my eyes.

But then something shifted. I started talking to people involved in Peer Leadership, and I realized I actually wanted to be part of it. Helping others has always been important to me—it’s the whole reason I chose healthcare. And toward the end of my sophomore year, once I understood what Peer Leadership at LCCTC was really about, I knew I had to try.

So, I went to talk to Mrs. Pasterik. Every time, she told me the same thing, “You need to work on your attitude.”  And that’s exactly what I did. Those words didn’t just push me to improve my attitude—they pushed me to raise my standards in every area. I made it my goal to get on the high honor roll every nine weeks, and every time I saw my name on that list, it gave me the drive to keep going.  I made it a point to make sure my attendance was exceptional.  I made sure I stayed out of any possible trouble. When I was permitted in class, I helped students around me – not giving them the answers, but helping guide them toward their own understanding, and in doing so, I became a better student.  I made sure I was worthy of the honor of being in an organization like Peer Leadership.

But even after all that work, I still wasn’t in Peer Leadership by the end of sophomore year; “Not yet,” she said.

I didn’t give up. I came into junior year strong. I kept showing up, stayed consistent, and Miss Pasterik started to notice.

There was a moment toward the end of my junior year when someone said something to crush my spirit, and I was ready to give up my goal, but my friends convinced me to talk to Mrs. Pasterik about what happened. I was so upset I could barely speak. But she listened. And when I finished, she looked at me and said, “Do you want to come to Peer Leadership training tomorrow?” That moment was a turning point. It showed me that all my hard work did matter—that people were paying attention. And that gave me the confidence to go even further.

Mrs. Pasterik helped me realize that Peer Leadership wasn’t the only thing I was capable of. I joined Student Council, and served my graduating class by helping plan school-wide events like Fall Flannel Fest, Holiday Dance, and Prom. 

With the encouragement of Mr. Pavia, I became a part of SkillsUSA—which completely pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Being part of SkillsUSA was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It moved me to do things I never would’ve imagined myself doing. At first, I was nervous—public speaking, interviews, presenting in front of judges—it all felt way out of reach. But the more I practiced, the more confident I became.

Winning first place at the state level for Health Occupations Professional Portfolio was already such a huge accomplishment for me—I was proud, and honestly shocked. But when I was called to the stage at nationals, and then when I was awarded a silver medal – second in the entire nation at SkillsUSA Nationals? That was even bigger. It showed me that I am capable, that my voice matters, and that hard work really does pay off. There was never a moment when I regretted joining SkillsUSA. It helped me grow not only as a student but also as a professional. It gave me confidence, experience, and unforgettable memories. I’ll always be grateful for that opportunity.

And I’m just as grateful for the people who helped me get there.

Miss Pasterik—thank you for never giving up on me, for keeping me on track, for being a shoulder to lean on, and for always pushing me to be better. I truly don’t think I would’ve made it through without you.

Mr. Pavia—thank you for not kicking me out of Peer Leadership when you took over. I really thought I was done for. But more than that, thank you for being there for me, for supporting me, and for being the father figure I never had.

Looking back, I’ve realized that growth isn’t easy. It takes work, patience, and the right people believing in you. LCCTC didn’t just prepare me for a career—it helped me become someone I’m proud of.

And if I could leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this: Never let doubt stop you from becoming the person you’re meant to be.

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Having earned her Certified Nurse Aide and scoring advanced on her NOCTIs, Alyssa will begin her studies for her nursing degree this fall; good luck, Alyssa!