Sebastian Balcazar is a young man who discovered his passion at a young age. “I’ve always been interested in cars - whether toys or the real thing. I had this dream of building my own one day,” he mentions. It’s no surprise that this Haledon local excels in the School of Automotive Technology. His studies have put an emphasis on Mechanical Engineering, a subject that Sebastian seeks to continue studying post graduation.

Attending PCTI has allowed Sebastian to discover something else that he’s passionate about: the NJROTC. Service on behalf of his nation has greatly influenced this young man’s path in life. In fact, he received the honor of being accepted to attend West Point US Military Academy - an achievement which earned him a full scholarship to the patriotic institution. The accomplishment is well-deserved. Sebastian is an active member of the Drill Team and has been involved in the Ceremonial Color Guard. He’s also held numerous leadership positions within PCTI’s NJROTC, the most recent of which is First Battalion Commanding Officer. He was the recipient of the Cadet Achievement Ribbon as Head Officer of Weapons and was one of five PCTI students to attend the Area 4 Cadet Leadership Training Academy program at the Newport Naval Base in Rhode Island.

It’s no surprise that this accomplished Bulldog ranks in the top nine percent of his class with a GPA of 4.01! Sebastian has the potential to graduate with seventeen college credits. He was selected for the National Honor Society, World Language Honor Society (Japanese), and Boys State. Sebastian is also a member of the Boys Golf team and achieved Principal’s Honor Roll during his high school career.

The future of this cadet is bright as can be. He’ll study Mechanical Engineering at West Point US Military Academy with the goal of serving as an Engineering Officer in the army. Eventually, Sebastian aims to become a US Army Ranger or a Paratrooper.

When asked what PCTI has to offer, Sebastian explained that for him, it was all about the opportunities. “I was able to become more involved in my community. A majority of my accomplishments wouldn’t exist if there wasn’t the opportunity for involvement in PCTI’s NJROTC.”

This humble young man’s desire to serve others is an admirable quality. Congratulations, Sebastian! Best of luck in all your future endeavors. We know you’ll work hard and have much success!

Omar Omar is a young man from Clifton whose career interest focuses on practicality. “I’ve always been fascinated by the endless possibilities presented by Business,” he says. It’s fitting that Omar elected to study as a member of the School of Business Careers with a concentration in Global Management.

The education focuses on building communication skills on the international scale. “We utilize cooperation to conduct business,” he adds.

Omar serves as the Vice President of FBLA and is an active member of the Muslim Student Association. He’s also participated in baseball and fencing. Omar holds a Co-Op position through the School-to-Careers program and works as a Bed Bath & Beyond sales associate for twenty to thirty hours each week. In his free time, he enjoys volunteering at his local religious center, the ISPC and as well as at the PACC. His favorite aspect of volunteerism is teaching young children about religion.

Omar ranks in the top fourteen percent of his class with a GPA of 3.9 and has the potential to graduate with twenty-one college credits. This Bulldog, who describes himself as ambitious, elected to enroll in five honors courses and an AP course, many of which occurred in the same year. The result was a lesson well-learned. “I didn’t perform how I wanted to, but that’s okay. I’m dedicated to working hard, especially when it comes to my college education and career.” Perseverance is undoubtedly one of his most admirable qualities.

Omar aims to attend a university that offers a three in three program, that is, one that offers an undergraduate degree in three years, followed by a law degree. He will pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. Omar’s reasoning is simple, “It’s more advanced than business and deals with the stock market.” Ultimately, he aims to become a Corporate Lawyer.

He’s already been accepted to Rutgers University and is waiting to hear from Fordham University and TCNJ.

For this young Bulldog, it’s all about finding his direction in life. “When I first came to PCTI, I didn’t have plans after going to college and receiving a bachelor’s degree. Now, I’m looking years ahead. I’ve really learned to think things through and keep my future in mind.”

Omar also had some outstanding advice for his fellow classmates. “Good manners go a long way. It gives people you meet a way to remember you. Plus, you never know what experiences others are going through.”

Congratulations Omar, you certainly have your eye on the prize. Your ambition will ensure that you reach all your goals!