I would recommend to anyone thinking of paying your own way through a phase one academy do a thorough background on the academy and those directing it before splurging the money. Check out the alternative in the area which is Onondaga. Onondaga's CNY Academy which hosts the phase one is the way to go in my opinion. Much more opportunity when a prospective employer sees the CNY certificate. This academy is very well respected. If I had to do over again I would wait or have wen to OCC's program.