Todd Pierik

After high school, Todd spent more than seven years doing manual labor for a biotechnology company.  After continually complaining to his parents about his job they recommended that he check out community college. At first, Todd was skeptical.

“I have ADD and though I am intelligent, I’ve never been successful at school,” he explains. “I questioned whether I could even go back to school with a disability.”

Todd’s mother happened across a book in the library about colleges that excel in teaching students with a disability; MiraCosta College was listed in the book.

“I decided to give MiraCosta a shot,” he says, “and I’m so glad I did.”

Todd excelled while at MiraCosta and took advantage of the school’s services, including Disabled Students Programs and Services (DSPS) and the Math Learning Center.

“I used DSPS for priority registration and for extended time on tests.  I also was a regular at the Math Learning Center.  I wouldn’t have passed math without that.”

While at MiraCosta, Todd took communication and sociology classes and took advantage of the school’s internship program.  He was an intern at Surf Dog Records and then decided to pursue an internship at a San Diego radio station. 

“In the first six months of my radio internship I’ve written commercials, programmed time slots, done voice-overs, did internet sales for a new live CD, learned how to edit songs for radio play and even helped out at a few live events.”

Todd’s internship experience also helped him land a time slot on Palomar College’s radio station. 

“My show is on Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon. It’s called the ‘Todd James Version.’ I bring chapter and verse and music to swear by.”

Todd earned an AA in general studies and has transferred to Cal State San Marcos. He says he looks back at his time at MiraCosta College with great appreciation.

“My friends and family have commented that since I’ve gone back to school my verbal skills have improved and my overall attitude has improved. MiraCosta really has been my golden step stool to success. The school has done great things for me.”