The stories shared during Wednesday’s Adult Learning Institute’s GED graduation were inspiring, emotional and brought joy to all in attendance.
From a young lady overcoming drug addiction to two students who only recently started learning English, they spoke about how it wasn’t easy, but was definitely worth the effort.
Before the students spoke, administrators shared encouraging parting words.
“Tonight is a reminder of what is possible,” Christine Thomas, Adult Education Program Coordinator, told the audience. “Every graduate here has a story. Each one is different, but they all share the determination to keep going.”
The graduates are in good company. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino told them she went through the GED program, but didn’t talk about it for many years - until after she was elected. “Tell your stories. They’re important to tell,” she said.
And, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instructional Services Rebecca Green shared that actor Mark Wahlberg, actress Drew Barrymore and musician Katy Perry also completed their GEDs. “Every day, you chose to show up,” Green said, adding that it wasn’t just the academic lessons that students learned in the program. “You discovered that not everything is correct the first time. … You learned that growth comes from reflection and perseverance. … You learned you could!”
Students Natalia Meza and Juan Marin shared similar challenges, as neither knew much English when they began, but each decided to pursue their GED in English instead of Spanish. Since exams are given individually in the subjects, they chose to take the English language arts exam last so they could continue improving their English, Teacher Dianne Ham said.
“I am pleased to have finished my GED in English, because it was difficult for me to gain the confidence to express myself and be able to speak in that language,” Meza said from the podium. Though the language is still new to her, she spoke confidently, joking with the audience “Wow, there’s a lot of people.” Later on, she thanked her Aunt Dora, who motivated her in her studies and life, the BOCES staff and Ham.
Marin shared part of his story in his speech.
“It is impressive how everything can change so quickly. A year ago, I was taking my first ESL class and today I am receiving my GED and I am up here thanking you all for what you have done for me,” he said.
Graduate Kalene Marsh told a very different story.
“Life took me down a difficult path, and there was a time when I struggled with addiction and did not make education a priority,” she told the audience. “Back then, I often felt lost and uncertain about my future.”
She talked about committing to showing up each day, and how with every lesson she learned and every challenge she overcame, she “gained confidence, strength and determination. Little by little, I began to believe in myself again.”
Before taking the stage, Marsh said, “I am getting my life on track and this is a great accomplishment. It will help me get a lot of jobs and advance in life.”
That ties in to what Director of Career and Technical Education and Adult Education Nicholas Millas told students in his comments. “Whatever you do next, do it with the same tenacity you pursued your GED with. You are now opening doors that were previously closed to you,” he said, before adding, “Keep learning.”
What makes the ALI program different from other GED programs, is that it is customized for each student, said Ham, who has taught in GED programs for 25 years, 15 of which have been at BOCES. “People come in with different needs.” Beyond the actual classwork, Ham and the caseworkers provide encouragement and support throughout the program.
“Sometimes I’ll just send them texts to keep them coming,” she said.
Green shared this during her opening remarks: “You deserve a place where you feel welcome to succeed. A place where you feel safe, respected and valued.”
It is something the students appreciate.
Graduate Ichidi Goulbourne came to the program to complete the English portion of the exam. “They take their time with you and let you do it at your own pace,” he said. With his GED, Goulbourne is also enrolled in the Auto Technology program at ALI, where he can learn a trade and earn some industry certifications. He’s looking forward to “Life, experiences and more happy days.”
Congratulations to all the graduates:
- Tayler Austin
- Gbolahan Barake
- Amber Cosgrove
- Aaron Creisstoff
- Gladys Escalante Salvatierra
- Ichidi Goulbourne
- Eric Kellam
- Juan Marin
- Kalene Marsh
- Natalia Meza
For information on any of the GED, ESL or career path programs offered through ALI, visit www.dcboces.org/adults.
