He immersed himself in American culture. He learned English quickly. He soon discovered what many of us already know here: It pays to have a job.

Fortunately, Renton Technical College is a partner in United Way of King County’s Bridge to Finish program, which helps students get the services they need to stay in school and complete their education. Christopher Bickcom, a former Benefits Hub coach at Renton Community College and then United Way Engagement Coordinator, not only informed Alizada about all the services and support Benefits Hubs offer but also helped Alizada apply for a job on campus.

Alizada now works in Renton Tech’s Information Technology Department while finishing his cybersecurity degree. His LinkedIn profile features a story about his journey, which begins with the phrase, “Dreams do come true!”

“It was my dream one day to come to the U.S. The culture of America, how people live here, and how organized it is—I really like the culture of America,” said Alizada. “I’ve accomplished some of my goals, but I’m still trying to learn and do more with English.”

Alizada is among more than 5,000 students who have benefited from over 31,000 Benefits Hub interventions via Bridge to Finish, which helps students across nearly a dozen community colleges and technical schools meet their daily needs to stay on track for degree completion.

We have provided more than $1 million in housing grants and more than $1 million in emergency grants, and we’ve helped many individuals, like Alizada, toward paths of employment to bolster their chances of staying in school. We have also successfully advocated for the state legislature to establish benefits navigators at all public two- and four-year institutions.

According to a report from The Conversation (a Massachusetts-based, independent news organization), 40% of community college students leave before graduation because they cannot afford expenses. Bridge to Finish helps close that gap.

“During my time as a Benefits Hub coach, I had the privilege of supporting students through wraparound services designed to ease the financial burdens and empower academic success,” said Bickcom. “Abdullah and I discussed his interests, skills, and what type of role would support both his studies and career goals.

“Although some early leads did not unfold as we hoped, we did not give up. During one of our follow-up meetings, I learned about employment opportunities on campus,” Bickcom said. “Shortly after, Abdullah was hired as a library receptionist, but his journey didn’t stop there. With momentum and determination, Abdullah later transitioned to the Information Technologies Department, where he now earns income while gaining hands-on experience in cyber security—the very field he is studying at Renton Tech.”

Alizada’s journey might make for a cool Hollywood story—if not a heartwarming Hallmark Channel series.

“I have freedom and security here,” Alizada said. “I just bought a car. I can eat anything I want, and I can work anywhere I want. I would someday like to get married and start a family. I feel really comfortable since I’ve come here. I am determined to be very proficient in cybersecurity. After graduating from college, I would like to work in the government. I would also like to continue in university to get my bachelor’s and master’s degrees.”

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