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At age 25, Jameson Parker had already worked five years in the field of GIS, drafting and telecommunications engineering when he decided to enroll in ������’s program on the Raymond Campus.

A Murrah High graduate, Parker became progressively more concerned about the job market as the economy turned downward.

“I didn’t have a degree and feared that when it was time to make cuts, those with a degree would be more secure. That’s when I decided to come to ������,” said Parker, a drafting and design technology major.

He had attended a four-year college before he came to Hinds but has found his experience at Hinds “incredible.”

“The majority of my teachers have actually had a previous career in the subjects that they were teaching,” Parker said. “Because of their experience and first-hand knowledge, the education I received was unparalleled. Not only did I learn traditionally through lectures and books, I also learned through in-depth use of the newest technical software and outside hands-on activities.”

In his classes Parker has learned to use AutoCAD, a design and engineering software tool used in a wide variety of career fields. “Whether it’s designing new technology, machine parts, homes and/or highways, ������ gave me the tools I needed to be able to understand and design complex technical drawings of any kind,” he said. “When I talk to potential employers and I tell them I’m student from ������, they don’t hesitate to hand me their card and ask that I give them a call.”

Parker singled out three instructors as caring and supportive – Cindy West, Phil Cockrell and Jeff Lewis.

“If I had known about the experience ������ had to offer when I graduated high school, I would’ve made my mind up to come here right away,” he said.