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For NPC student and Metallica scholar Ruperto Garica, going back to school was quite literally a way to build a better life for himself, from the ground up. Ruperto moved from the Phoenix area to Arizona’s White Mountains to be near his family and to help care for his father, who is on dialysis.

It was also a move to build a better future for himself. Having spent time in prison, Ruperto knew he didn’t want to fall back into the negative patterns of his past. “I knew what it was like to break,” he said. “I needed to start over and knew that having a strong foundation is essential. Without a solid foundation, everything cracks and crumbles.” He said, “I don’t ever want to experience anything like that ever again. I want more for my life. I want to do better.”

Struggling to find work in the area, Ruperto took a chance and walked into NPC. It just happened to be the first day of class for the college’s construction program. “They told me to get to class,” he laughed. “That’s what I did, and I never looked back.”

“I love the process of building,” he said. “I now understand that life is about making and building strong and meaningful relationships. I used to be close-minded, thinking I didn’t need anyone, that I could do everything for myself,” he explained. “I isolated myself from my family and from those who really supported me. But now I understand that humans are not meant to be isolated. We need each other.”

With help from the Metallica scholars’ program, NPC faculty and staff, and the loving support of his family, Ruperto has now completed his first year at NPC and has quite literally built not only a home but a better life for himself from the ground up. “As the year progressed, it was like I was building myself as well as the roof, walls, and trusses for the home. I’m proud of the progress I’ve made,” he said. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the support I’ve received.”

Ruperto plans to continue studying in NPC’s construction program. He is also eager to find ways to give back to the community and serve others. He is currently investigating opportunities to begin a non-profit foundation and work with organizations, including NPC, to bring opportunities to people who are re-entering society after incarceration. “I want to show ex-cons that change is possible. You can build a better life and do good things. I want to show them the importance of going back to school and learning trades that they can use to better themselves and the lives of those around them,” he explained. “Whether it be going into the prisons and working with prisoners on obtaining their GED’s or helping them find transitional housing in the area, all it takes is a little effort to help someone open their eyes.”

Ruperto admitted that he still struggles. “I battle every day and have to be very conscious of the decisions I make,” he said. “Someone once said, ‘The battle between good and evil will never be won. But it always has to be fought.’” He resolved, “I think it’s about how bad you want it, and I want it pretty bad.”