Otto Ersek

Otto Ersek chose to earn his associate degree at Cuyahoga Community College because of the variety of programs and degrees it offers, and the affordability. “I switched my major a few times until I finally decided to pursue the Paralegal Studies program, which is a growing field in Northeast Ohio,” he said. “And I stayed at the College because it offered a high quality education at a cost that wouldn't leave me in debt.”

Once he started taking Paralegal classes, Ersek met Assistant Professor Daniel Newman, whose interest in his students made a deep impression on him. “He deeply cares for all of his students, and in the material he teaches, and wants us all to succeed in our profession,” he said. “In the Paralegal Studies program we were taught how to use high-level thinking for problem solving, understanding complex case law and statute interpretation. That prepared us to further our education and have an advantage over paralegals from other schools.”

During the summer of 2016, he participated in the College’s Summer Internship Program, which allowed him to gain experience in the Academic Affairs department at Eastern Campus and included financial support for one summer class. Ersek was impressed by what he learned during his internship. “That was a wonderful experience," he said. "Academic Affairs shares the principles that the Paralegal Studies program instills in its students - confidentiality, due diligence, thorough research and asking questions when clarification is needed.”

Since graduating from Tri-C in May, 2017, Ersek has been focusing on his campaign to win a seat on City Council in Bedford, Ohio. He is glad his first degree is from Tri-C and encourages others to consider enrolling at the College - “It is truly a wonderful place to begin your education.”