Student Success
Student Feature
College Life
Choosing the right college can make all the difference - especially for students who are still discovering their career goals. For Taye Waller, Coastline College offered the flexibility, support, and real-world preparation needed to turn academic exploration into professional success. His journey highlights the power of mentorship, early use of student resources, and a commitment to staying the course.
Choosing a Path with Room to Explore
After graduating from high school, Taye Waller knew he wanted to pursue higher education right away—but flexibility was just as important as forward momentum. Unsure of which career path to commit to, Taye sought a college that would allow space to explore interests while balancing other responsibilities. Coastline College quickly stood out for its strong reputation in online and hybrid learning, offering the freedom to work, grow, and plan for the future without sacrificing accessibility.
Support That Made the Difference
Throughout his time at Coastline, Taye credits the encouragement of faculty and staff as a major factor in his success. One particularly influential mentor was Coastline Career Services Specialist Dr. Paolo Varquez, who motivated Taye to stay consistent, push through challenging courses, and keep sight of long-term goals. With access to hands-on labs, rigorous coursework, and career services, Taye developed both technical and professional skills that translated directly into real-world experience.
From Classroom to Career
The knowledge and connections Taye gained at Coastline helped open the door to his first job in the IT field. These opportunities reinforced the value of pairing strong academic preparation with practical application, giving Taye the confidence to take the next steps in his career.
Advice for Future Dolphins
A June 2025 graduate, Taye earned an Associate in Cybersecurity and Data Analytics and encourages current students to take advantage of Coastline’s student services early and often. From academic counseling and tutoring to career services and mentorship, these resources are most impactful when accessed before graduation. Starting early allows students the time to plan thoughtfully, explore options, and build a clear path toward both academic and career success.
Congratulations on all your success, Taye! Coastline wishes you the best of luck as you continue your IT career!
Are you a Coastline College alum who would like to share successes you've acheived after graduating? Complete our Student Success Highlight Submission Form to share your story with us!
