Brian Jagat CCBC student, former PEP enrollee Getting an early start Brian Jagat began his college education at CCBC before he even graduated from high school. By taking advantage of CCBC’s Parallel Enrollment Program (PEP), Brian saved himself both time and money. Looking back on the experience, Brian says, “PEP gave me a definite edge. A lot of my friends chose to go right to work after high school, but PEP helped me transition from high school to college, allowing me to get ahead in my pursuit of a nursing career.” Brian’s mother, Margaret, agrees. “PEP helped Brian learn a lot, but it also made him more focused and confident. It was as if his eyes were opened and he became more mature – he was going to go for his goals and nothing could stop him.” Making the most out of college Now a full-time CCBC student, heavily involved in the Essex Student Government Association (SGA) and the Office of Student Life, Brian is focused on making the most of his college experience. Having earned 33 credits so far, Brian is just two classes away from applying for selective admission into CCBC's Nursing program. He credits his many mentors among the faculty and staff at CCBC with creating “a very positive environment …almost like a second family,” in which he can learn and grow. For Brian, CCBC is a place where “all of the possibilities can happen.” “All parents want their children to go higher,” says Brian’s mom of his success at CCBC, “but the kids have to want it too, and now Brian does. He sees opportunities and wants to grab them. I am so proud of him