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CTE Student Success

Lamont Peace

Certificate: Mental Health Worker

What made you come to Cerritos College and why?

I worked as a construction worker in street maintenance in the City of Lynwood for many years. Although I had gone to Trade-Tech for water supply technology, my true passion was always helping people and supporting my community in any way possible.

I wanted to get hands-on experience, to comprehend what it takes to navigate not only the mental health aspect but the entire field, including social work and serving special populations. Getting accepted into this program was a crucial step for me to move forward and discover my passion for working in the field of homeless services and mental health. 

One of the reasons I chose my career program was never about the money; rather, I wanted to be able to support the community we serve. This involves eradicating or erasing barriers faced by individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as addressing issues related to mental health, including potential misdiagnoses. The goal is to provide people with accurate knowledge instead of relying on assumptions.

My future plans after college include pursuing a graduate program. I am currently in the process of deciding which program I want to pursue or even gain acceptance to. However, my ultimate goal is to become a doctor; I aspire to be known as Dr. Peace.

STUDENT ADVICE

Don’t give up! It’s a tough field, and I won’t sugarcoat it. However, if you have a love for helping others and a  passion for providing support, not only to the less fortunate but to anyone in need, I highly recommend entering this field. It’s incredibly rewarding, especially coming from where I come from. 

While I still grew up in a two-parent home, my community lacked resources. Being able to support and provide resources to individuals who may not be aware of certain things is personally fulfilling. So, my advice is simple: don’t give up. It’s hard and challenging, but get uncomfortable to get comfortable.

INSIGHT

I vividly recall a class with Melanie Martins, focusing on healthy relationships and special populations—aimed at understanding the individuals we serve. This class provided valuable insights into the challenges of the field and equipped me with the understanding and preparation needed for day-to-day life.

Melanie Martins doesn’t realize how important a role she has played in my education and passion for this field. What she taught me truly motivated me to move forward, and I believe she significantly influenced not only my educational journey but also my professional career. I sincerely thank her for that.

Lastly, Dr. Ronquillo left a lasting impression during the pandemic. As we navigated classes and other challenges, she consistently pushed and encouraged me. Her impact on my educational career, making 
me feel uncomfortable to eventually get comfortable, is noteworthy. Despite her role as the chair, she was approachable, always pushing me to excel. Her accessibility made it easy to communicate, and I appreciate the support she provided. Opting to start here before heading to a university has proven to be a valuable decision.

Cerritos College

Mental Health Worker 

For more information on enrollment, please refer to the current class schedule or consult a counselor.
www.cerritos.edu/mental-health-worker