By Margot Nitschke, Grant Compliance Specialist

Since Byte Back classes have gone virtual, we checked in with Elia, a Microsoft Office Specialist, Excel student, to see how things are going.  

After 15 years as a stay-at-home mom, Elia was searching for a career path with many job possibilities, and that’s when she found Byte Back. 

Elia started with Computer Foundations 2 and found a mentor in her instructor, who encouraged her to always keep learning. Even after completing the course in November, Elia has stayed in touch with her instructor. 

“She is always encouraging me to keep focusing on the future,” she says. “That is the kind of teacher you find at Byte Back.” 

Elia is now in the MOS Excel course, working hard to build professional and technical skills for an administrative career.  

A key factor in bolstering her career readiness is the one-on-one support from Byte Back’s professional development staff.   

While the unexpected hurdle of the coronavirus has upended her learning environment, there have been some surprising benefits for Elia. No longer having to commute, she is saving money on gas, eating out, and doesn’t have to waste time in traffic.  

With her two school-aged children at home due to the COVID-19 regulations, Byte Back’s new virtual learning model allows Elia to avoid having to arrange and pay for childcare while continuing to attend classes.  

The most important thing to Elia in class is the progress she’s making toward her career. “Many schools are closed. Many classes are canceled. Byte Back has kept on going, and that is amazing,” she says. 

Elia will finish her Microsoft Office Specialist, Excel course this month and hopes to take her certification exam virtually as well. Then, she’s hopeful to start a position as an office assistant, administrative assistant, or receptionist, with the help of Byte Back’s career team.