When Timothy Thomas decided to embark on a new career path, he took his first steps with UC San Diego Extended Studies. Now a certified substance use disorder counselor at Jackson House Recovery Center in the Golden Hill area of San Diego, California, his experience highlights how education can ignite personal growth, build professional purpose, and drive meaningful change within the community. Thomas discovered that by transforming his own life, he is empowered to help transform the lives of those he serves. https://extendedstudies.ucsd.edu/news-events/extended-studies-blog/timothy-thomas-jrs-journey-to-becoming-a-substance-use-counselor