Meet Erik S.
24 Credit Hour Program Participant and Marketing Graduate
鈥淎ttending Hudson Valley was the fresh start I needed. It helped me find my direction.鈥
For Erik Schalk, 麻豆影视 was the start of a new path—one that led to opportunity, growth and a clearer sense of direction.
After leaving high school at 16, Erik enrolled in Hudson Valley’s 24-Credit Hour Program, designed for students who hadn’t yet completed a high school diploma but were ready to start college-level coursework.
“As soon as I got to 麻豆影视, I started enjoying school a lot more, especially because of the flexibility and freedom,” Erik said. “I was able to take business-focused courses along with my requirements, which really helped me figure out what I wanted to do and stay motivated.”
He completed the program, earned his New York State High School Equivalency Diploma, and continued into the College’s Individual Studies A.S. program before switching to Marketing, where he earned his associate degree.
Along the way, he says support from faculty, advisors and campus resources made a big difference.
“The faculty and staff really took the time to help me figure things out and stay on track,” he said. “I also worked with tutors in math and writing, and the Learning Centers were a big help.”
After graduating, Erik transferred to Binghamton University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with concentrations in Marketing and Business Analytics.
“Hudson Valley was a turning point for me,” Erik said. “It gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in college and figure out my direction.”
In 2023, he began working at Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis, Indiana, joining the company’s Project Management Graduate Development Program. He completed three rotations across different engine programs before moving into his current role as a Government Property Manager, where he helps oversee government-owned assets tied to defense contracts and supports compliance efforts.
“I really like the job,” he said. “It’s been a great learning experience. A lot of people think of Rolls-Royce as luxury cars, but the company I work for builds aircraft engines and propulsion systems—and the work is really impactful.”
Looking ahead, Erik hopes to keep growing in project management and take on roles that offer broader experience and international opportunities.
“It’s never too late to make a change,” he said. “For me, Hudson Valley was the fresh start I needed. My advice is to use your resources, meet people and learn how to tell your story.”