Jason O'Connor

Drug and Alcohol Counseling / Human Services

Jason O'Connor is a veteran who served five years in the U.S. Navy. Using his GI Bill, he decided to take advantage of the opportunity that Delaware Tech offers its veterans and pursue his degree.

He chose to go down the human services path with a concentration in drug and alcohol counseling after discovering his passion and ability to make a difference within the community.

More specifically, O'Connor chose this field because he knew that he would be able to relate to the individuals struggling with addiction due to his own life experiences. "During my time in treatment, multiple clinicians encouraged me to take courses in this field, and peers routinely used me as a sympathetic ear," he said.

A year before enrolling, O'Connor had experienced homelessness, struggled with an addiction, and found it difficult to find hope within himself and his environment. He also felt overwhelmed about returning to the classroom after 20 years.

However, O'Connor was determined to fulfill his newfound goals after receiving many words of encouragement. "I met several current students and recent graduates who empowered me and assured me that I could do this."

His favorite times at Delaware Tech have been spent in class with his instructors Larry Merchant and Silja Walter. "They made attending class a joy and something that I looked forward to," O'Connor said. "It was a guarantee that each week there would be laughs and something new and exciting to be learned."

Since being at Delaware Tech, the changes O'Connor sees in himself have been immeasurable. His responsibility, self-sufficiency, and organizational skills have all improved since taking that first leap in pursuing his passion. "The College has played an integral role in my process of recovery and professional development."

Following graduation, O'Connor plans to receive his bachelor's degree and his master's degree in social work. Ultimately, he hopes to become licensed and specialize in trauma therapy.