Brothers graduate together from MCC
Donquantae Scott, left, DonTayevious Scott, and Dontaidrae Scott before the graduation
ceremony.
For three brothers from Toomsuba, May 9 was a day to remember as they all walked across the stage at Meridian Community College's graduation ceremony.
DonTayevious Scott, 24, and Dontaidrae Scott, 26, graduated from the College’s Welding and Cutting Technology Program. Their younger brother, Donquantae Scott, 22, completed the Utility Lineman Program.
The Scott brothers said the hands-on learning and support from their career and technical education instructors made a difference in helping them reach this milestone. “I wanted to do something with my hands and take care of my kids,” said Dontaidrae, who had worked as a certified nurse assistant before switching paths. “I got burned out in health care and needed something new.”
DonTayevious, who had worked at a local retail store before joining the welding program, said, “I just wanted to try something different. I like the classwork; it’s fun and challenging at the same time.”
Donquantae got into the lineman program after some friends encouraged him to give it a try. He also earned his CDL before coming to MCC.
All three said the instructors were one of the best parts of their time at the College.
“Eric is good—he’s hands-on,” said Dontaidrae about the Welding and Cutting Program Coordinator and and Instructor Eric Jones. “Not only does he tell us what to do and how to do it, he’ll jump in and show us. Even if we mess up, he keeps us going.”
Donquantae agreed, giving credit to his instructors as well. “Dan Steverson and Kim Culpepper are great teachers,” he said of the Utility Lineman Program’s instructors. Donquantae was also honored as the Outstanding Utility Lineman Program student during MCC’s recent Awards Night.
After graduation, Dontaidrae and DonTayevious plan to return to MCC this summer to gain additional experience in pipe welding. They’re aiming to find jobs on the pipeline. Donquantae is ready to go straight into the workforce.
Their mother, Catrina Seals, is proud of all three. Years ago, she earned her GED at MCC and said she’s thankful her sons also found success at the College.
“I’m extremely proud of them for the accomplishments and the milestones they’ve made for themselves,” she said.
For more information about MCC’s Career and Technical Education, visit meridiancc.edu/cte.