Gabe Syverson
A conversation with someone can change the course of our lives. For Gabe Syverson, a Broadcast Media Technology student, a conversation with his aunt brought him to Owens and motivated him to be the best he could.
While at Delta High School, Syverson struggled to find interest in anything. “I caused trouble and didn’t do any homework. I was a complete burnout,” he said. The only thing he enjoyed was making music. When he met with a guidance counselor, he was told about trade schools but still only wanted to pursue music. Then, he had a discussion with his aunt, who had taken an art class at Owens. He applied to Owens and knew right away that this was where he was meant to be. “I knew right away that I had to shape up because I was going to get my degree,” Syverson said. “A year and a half later, after almost failing out of high school, I have a 3.4 GPA and I’ve never felt better.”
Away from the classroom, Syverson and his fellow Broadcast Media students benefit from hands-on experiences, including the new TV production studio conveniently located across the hall from Student Media Center and Owens Community College Radio (OCCR) station.
When Syverson came to Owens, he felt a sense of belonging he had not felt before. “I felt there is more focus on community and connection to students than there was in high school,” Syverson said. He found encouragement and support from not only his professors, but his classmates which has had a profound impact on his success.
For the first time in his schooling, Syverson said he feels a sense of pride and accomplishment. “It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. He plans to graduate in Spring 2025.
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Published April 2024