Mark Bruley joined Team Synergy in 2002 as a sophomore. He admits that he was a “difficult kid” who spent a lot of time out of the classroom wither in the hallways or serving suspensions. When posed the challenge by his then assistant principal, Mark decided that he would make the transition to Synergy. He quickly learned that Synergy provided a better environment for him where he was less distracted given its smaller setting and smaller class sizes. Mark fondly remembers the team building activities and trips conducted that helped students get to know one another and forget about the issues they experienced outside of school.
Soon after, Mark learned to trust the teachers which was something he was not used to doing. He practiced self-control and accepted the wisdom provided by teachers. He credits his efforts then to setting a foundation for his eventual transition to the world of work. Mark eventually joined the United States Navy where he spent time in various location around the world such as Japan and Australia. It was his time in the military that ultimately lead him to a career in Engineering. He eventually returned to school earning a degree in engineering and now is a Service Engineer working with machinery in food packing automation.
Mark left us with the following parting quote: “Listen to the teachers. Don’t let your frustrations overtake your emotions. They are trying to help you. No matter what is going on outside of school, make sure you finish school and pay attention in school. The outside problems will eventually go away. If you still to your guns, if you graduate, that will help you in the future and you will improve as a person and as a part of society.”