I’m grateful for CLC because it changed me—and by allowing me to complete my GED and become a college student, the college has given me a second chance at life.在高中，我失去了对学业的关注，在三年级辍学了。
My struggle was working low-paying jobs while raising two young daughters by myself. I wanted to give them a better life, so I decided at age 22 to get my GED.没有高中文凭或GED证书，你在就业市场上就不太有吸引力。
I earned my GED at the Lakeshore Campus, and one memorable teacher was Warren Thomas. He was my motivation.He tutored me in every subject, especially in math concepts ranging from fractions to decimals. He was amazing. If there was something that he couldn’t help me with, we’d find the answer together. When I felt like giving up, Warren was there to push me, giving me encouraging words. A lot of times, I didn’t believe in myself, and I didn’t see what Warren saw in me. I wouldn’t be here without him.
In 2015, when I walked up to receive my GED at the graduation ceremony, I cried because I was so happy. It was a breathtaking experience. My kids, who were age six and five at the time, were there—and they were just as happy as I was. To see them smiling at me, at Mommy’s graduation. . . I don’t have words to describe the feeling.
It makes me happy to see how many others are getting a GED at CLC.许多从高中辍学或被开除的人，都没有再回来完成学业。因此，当我在CLC看到GED学生们努力改变自己的生活，并为他人带来改变时，我的灵魂受到了温暖。
As a CLC student, I’ve really enjoyed an introductory psychology class, which has inspired me to pursue a career as a psychologist.这门课程是对人类思想和行为的一次有趣的观察。现在，我想成为那个可以扮演咨询师的角色，直接改善别人生活的人。
I’m already in a helping role in my current job在莱克县青年保护队担任青年导师。我的职责包括收集捐赠的外套、衣服、尿布、婴儿食品和其他用品，并把它们送给需要的人。我还帮助会员找公寓，当他们感到有压力时，我还帮助他们找咨询师或社工。
Earning the GED made me learn true meaning of patience.Success doesn’t come overnight, and it’s not handed to you. But if you work hard enough, you’ll get what you want in due time.