"The professional atmosphere from the faculty, that was something," she said.

Baker-Powell can recall taking resume writing classes, learning interview etiquette and even participating in state competitions. She gained knowledge and confidence.

"I knew I could do it," she said.

Baker-Powell not only gained a computerized applied accounting degree from MNTC, but friends as well.

"I've got lifelong friends I met there," she said. "That's where my heart is. They're amazing people."

For the past four years, Baker-Powell has worked as a staff assistant at the University of Oklahoma College of Education. But she volunteers once a week at the Center for Children and Families and cares for children as their parents try to make something of their lives.

"I'm giving back and helping," she said. "I love it. I like that I get to pay it back and help them as parents going through struggles and trials."

As a current Options student, Mary Ann Cowan, 60, understands what it's like to be back in class. Cowan, a widow, said she decided to enroll at MNTC after she was laid off from her employer because of enforced labor reduction.

A student in the legal office program, Cowan said her goal is to become an accredited legal secretary. She hopes to graduate in January or February from MNTC.

She said a MNTC counselor told her about Options as she enrolled for classes last winter.

"The program has helped me stay in school," Cowan said. "I've really enjoyed being part of the program. It has given me a chance to become more involved."

Options coordinator Cara Ditto said the program was known as the Center for Displaced Homemakers when it opened Aug. 1, 1978. Over the years, the name has changed.

"We have the same purpose," Ditto said. "That has never changed."

Ditto explained how the program works. Once a client contacts MNTC, either Ditto or an Options counselor meets with the client to assess needs. The client may be looking for schooling or employment.

"Options services are free of charge," she said.