James E. Chambers recently finished his certificate in Food & Beverage Management at St. Petersburg College.

Shortly after finishing his certificate he was hired by the Loews Don CeSar Hotel. His journey from unemployment to job security is an inspiring story of student success.

My name is James E. Chambers, I live in the Seminole area and I attend the SPC campus at Seminole. I’m very glad to be in college even at the tender age of 54. I took eight years to get back in school. It was eight years ago I said that I wanted to go back to school after hearing our president encourage all Americans to extend their education even if you already have a degree. Help others in learning. I made plenty of excuses, usually about money or time. Money, because I made a certain amount that cancelled my eligibility for financial aid, and time because it would interrupt my routine; my comfort zone.

I lost my job unexpectedly and found myself with the time and no money until one of my veteran friends asked why not go back to school. There is a program called V-rap that will pay you to go back to school. I fit the criteria due to my age and being unemployed, so I began researching this. This renewed interest in coming back to school also helped me not to focus on the loss of my 23 year-old son and divorce that both happened within the same year.

I started at Pinellas Technical College in St. Petersburg. I also joined the SkillsUSA organization finding great support and resources. I graduated 13 months later. I then enrolled in the Food & Beverage Management certificate program at SPC, which ties into the hospitality industry that I have come to love. After completing the certificate I was hired at the Loews Don CeSar Hotel where I am proud to be a team member. To anyone that may have second thoughts on how, what, or where, don’t forget the why. It’s never too early or too late to educate. Enjoy your journey. : )

Thank you, James for sharing your career success story with everyone at SPC. We are proud of your accomplishment and wish you luck with the next chapter of your life!

If you have a success story you would like to share with SPC, or know someone who does, feel free to connect with the Career Center that is closest to you.