Tizoc Mendoza, 22, felt he had found the "real deal" when arriving for his interview.

The "real deal" Mendoza spoke of is Year Up, a program dedicated to training young adults, ages 18 to 24, about computer applications, hardware and networking, along with etiquette and business.

"I joined this program because I felt that I had a very weak work ethic," Mendoza, from Escondido, Calif. said. "My father ... knew I wanted to get into the business world, and with my passion for technology, he simply put two and two together and suggested the program to me."

While Mendoza was attending a Year Up class on a recent Wednesday, an open house for prospective participants took place next door. The eager young adults came dressed in professional clothing. They walked down a bright yellow hallway containing framed black and white photos of current Year Up participants.

Deborah Lao, director of outreach and admissions for Year Up's San Francisco office, explained how the program works.

"At Year Up, it is all about growth and encouraging each other to keep growing, so feedback is a way of supporting each other in that process and also just give each other pats on the back," said Lao.

Kenya Hawkins, 22, was at the open house and said he is planning on joining the program.

"What appeals to me, I would have to say, is the opportunities that Year Up has to offer. I mean, it seems like Year Up is eager and willing to help you a lot," he said.

Year Up gives participants the opportunity to obtain up to 13 college credits, enhance their computer and business skills and work in a six-month apprenticeship--all in 11 months. They can earn up to $150 a week from the program itself and another $250 a week from their apprenticeship.

The staff at Year Up also educates their students about business etiquette by teaching them how to act and dress to catch the attention of those who are hiring.

Year Up makes sure that participants know how important it is to be on time and behave professionally. If students are late to class, they may have money deducted from their paychecks. One young man at the open house was asked to wear a tie next time he visited the program.

Sophea Keo, a current Year Up student, said: "I'm no longer feeling shy when wearing a suit on the bus or walking around my neighborhood."