Rivet School — Local services in Richmond

My name is Tim Johnson. Born and raised in the heart of Richmond, California—a city that taught me both the harshness of struggle and the beauty of resilience—I stand today as a proud college graduate.

After more than 25 years away from the classroom, I made a decision that would change my life: I returned to school. I earned my Associate’s Degree and my Bachelor’s in Communications in under two years through Rivet School, in partnership with Southern New Hampshire University. What once seemed impossible became my reality—not because it was easy, but because I refused to quit.

There were moments I doubted myself. I had two kids early in life and chose work over school to provide for my family. Life was heavy, but my wife stood by me like a rock, and we raised three incredible kids together: Lil Tim, Taliyah, and Taevon.

My greatest inspiration? My daughter Taliyah. Watching her walk across that stage at the University of California, East Bay reminded me that the seeds we plant in our children will grow if we nurture them with love, hope, and example. She made me proud—and she reminded me it’s never too late to finish what you started.

To every young man walking the same streets I did, wondering if there’s more to life than what you see—believe me, there is. I’ve been you. I've felt that uncertainty. But let me tell you something: the streets may have taught us to survive, but education will teach us to thrive.

You are not your past. You are your potential. And with faith, family, and focus, you can reinvent yourself—just like I did.

Richmond made me tough. My family made me strong. Rivet School gave me a second chance. And now, I walk with pride—not just as a graduate, but as an example of what’s possible when you...

I highly recommend Rivet School for anyone wishing to complete an Associate's or Bachelor's degree while juggling other obligations. Rivet School is an online program, which provides a great balance of support and flexibility for working adults, like myself. It allowed me to learn at my own pace. Another important aspect of Rivet school is the one-on-one support provided by some amazing coaches. Throughout your academic journey, you'll get personalized guidance through coaches that will help keep you motivated, on track, and able to overcome obstacles.

Rivet School also offers financial aid, and emergency funds, making it easier for you to focus on your studies without much financial burdens.

Rivet also partners with SNHU (a regionally accredited university) making it so your degree will hold credibility and you can use it for your future career opportunities.

Give Rivet School a try, you will...

Concourse Education has changed the college experience for me.

I tried to go to school online at De Anza College and what they don't tell you is how difficult and uncaring the school system has become. If you are looking for a real college experience, one in which, your coach (an advisor for a regular college) actually cares about your performance and guides you on a weekly basis, Concourse Education is the way to go! I just started my BA program through Concourse March 1st of this year and am already slated to finish my BA next summer!

Concourse Education is cheaper than a regular college, provides real experience, and has people who care. Do not look any further and sign up already!! You get six weeks free to see how you like the program, you have nothing to lose and...