Dean Corson's Real Success

Dean Corson openly admits that he has the reading level of a 3rd grader. “I didn't think it was possible for me to go to college,” Corson said, “I was in special needs classes all my life. I just didn’t think I was smart enough.” On Friday, Corson will graduate with a certificate in Automotive Technology, thanks to his own dedication and the dedication of teachers that have supported him along the way.

Dudley Cole, automotive professor at CWC, is one of Corson’s biggest fans. “Dean really came into the world of college at a terrible disadvantage, unable to read or write."  

Because of his desire and drive and want to become a technician, he has made strides that are just phenomenal. The gulf he has traversed over the past few semesters is amazing. ”

Dudley Cole

Corson is very proud of his accomplishments thus far. He is the first in his family to get any kind of degree. “I have my mom’s fire and my dad’s determination,” Corson said. The Riverton native has two younger brothers and believes his success will show them the merits of earning a college education. “It shows my brothers there is a reason to go to school, getting this certificate means I’m accomplishing things, it means there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” Corson said.  

“He is graduating with a certificate, it’s not a big fancy degree. But it is such a critical affirmation that he is making progress towards something that has never happened in his family before. That’s what we are all about here at CWC,” Cole said.  

Corson plans to continue his education and complete the Associate Degree in Automotive Technology. He has finished the core automotive classes and now needs to complete general education requirements such as English and writing. He knows these will be his greatest challenges. “It may take me longer than most to finish but I am going to get it done.”