Student Spotlight Archives - 天涯海角社区 /category/spotlights/student-spotlight/ See Yourself Here Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:35:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 /wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cropped-天涯海角社区-icon-512x512-1-150x150.png Student Spotlight Archives - 天涯海角社区 /category/spotlights/student-spotlight/ 32 32 Video Spotlight: May Ashe /video-spotlight-may-ashe/ Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:35:02 +0000 /?p=8007 May Ashe’s story is one of resilience, persistence, and learning to never give up on yourself. In July 2026, May graduated from the Practical Nursing program at 天涯海角社区 and will continue her journey to earn her Associate Degree Nursing and become an RN. Watch May’s emotional and inspiring story on 天涯海角社区’s...

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Video Spotlight: May Ashe

May being pinned at the practical nursing pinning ceremony.

May Ashe’s story is one of resilience, persistence, and learning to never give up on yourself.

In July 2026, May graduated from the Practical Nursing program at 天涯海角社区 and will continue her journey to earn her Associate Degree Nursing and become an RN.

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A Second Chance, A New Future /a-second-chance-a-new-future/ Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:33:33 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6108 Bryan Hayes knows the value of perseverance. After leaving high school in the ninth grade, he faced many of the challenges common to adult learners鈥攚ork responsibilities, family commitments, and life circumstances that made returning to school difficult. But despite the obstacles, Bryan never gave up on his goal of completing his...

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A Second Chance, A New Future

Bryan Hayes knows the value of perseverance.

After leaving high school in the ninth grade, he faced many of the challenges common to adult learners鈥攚ork responsibilities, family commitments, and life circumstances that made returning to school difficult. But despite the obstacles, Bryan never gave up on his goal of completing his education.

That determination led him to 天涯海角社区’s College and Career Readiness (CCR) program, where he found the support, encouragement, and structure he needed to take the next step forward.

Motivated by a desire to set an example for his children, Bryan returned to the classroom while working full-time. He attended in-person classes, completed online preparation for the GED and HiSET, and remained focused on achieving the milestone he had put on hold for years.

At the same time, Bryan enrolled in the Basic Skills Plus program and began training in HVAC, building both academic and technical skills for a stronger future.

His hard work and commitment did not go unnoticed. In 2026, Bryan was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society, an honor that recognizes his academic achievement, strong work ethic, and dedication to personal growth.

“The CCR instructors and staff felt like family to me,” Bryan said. “They pushed me, supported me, and the day I finished, they were just as proud as I was.”

On July 16, 2026 Bryan walked across the stage at the College and Career Readiness graduation ceremony. He had completed his original goal. 

Now, he is setting new goals. Bryan is continuing his HVAC training and is working toward an Associate in Applied Science degree. 

Taking that first step, coming to the College and Career Readiness program, is opening new doors of opportunity. 

Congratulations, Bryan! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.

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Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 天涯海角社区 /shelby-high-student-finds-her-spark-at-ccc/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 23:26:45 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/?p=6085 When Bryanna Veliz signed up for 天涯海角社区’s Careers Electric Summer Electrical Academy, she wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. She knew she wanted to challenge herself and explore a possible career path. Just a few weeks later, she’s found something much bigger: confidence, purpose and a clear vision for...

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Shelby High Student Finds Her Spark at 天涯海角社区

When Bryanna Veliz signed up for 天涯海角社区’s Careers Electric Summer Electrical Academy, she wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. She knew she wanted to challenge herself and explore a possible career path. Just a few weeks later, she’s found something much bigger: confidence, purpose and a clear vision for her future.

The rising Shelby High School senior spends her days learning the ins and outs of electrical systems, reading blueprints and gaining hands-on experience that many students don’t encounter until much later in their careers. And she couldn’t be happier about it.

“I wanted to do the academy for the experience and to eventually get my license,” Veliz said. “I wanted to see if this was really what I wanted to do, and it definitely is.”

Veliz is one of 18 students participating in 天涯海角社区’s eight-week Summer Electrical Academy, a program made possible through the Siemens Foundation’s Careers Electric鈩� initiative. Students earn college credit, complete a registered pre-apprenticeship and gain real-world experience while exploring careers in one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing industries.

For Veliz, the journey started years ago at home.

Growing up, she watched her father work in construction, remodeling and renovation through his own business. Before long, she was helping alongside him.

“I’ve watched and worked with my dad in his business,” she said. “He’s my biggest inspiration.”

While those early experiences sparked her interest, her father encouraged her to build on that foundation through education. Through Career & College Promise classes at 天涯海角社区, Veliz enrolled in electrical courses and quickly discovered she had found something she truly enjoyed.

“Once I started taking electrical classes, I knew this is what I wanted to do as a career,” she said.

Today, the academy is helping her turn that interest into expertise.

She especially enjoys the variety the field offers.

“I love being able to get into a bunch of different things,” Veliz said. “I really enjoy learning how to read blueprints and getting into the residential side鈥攍earning how to wire and figuring out the safest and easiest ways to do things.”

The program introduces students to residential wiring, electrical systems and industry-recognized skills while providing a glimpse into the many career opportunities available in the electrical trade.

Like many students stepping into something new, Veliz admits she felt nervous about applying.

“I was nervous because my grades weren’t great,” she said. “But I know hands-on learning is what works best for me, and this was an opportunity I didn’t want to miss.”

Taking that leap has opened doors she never imagined. During a recent visit to the academy, Governor Josh Stein met with students and learned firsthand how programs like Careers Electric are helping prepare North Carolina’s next generation of skilled workers.

As for Veliz, she already knows what’s next.

This fall, she’ll continue taking classes at 天涯海角社区 while finishing her senior year at Shelby High School. After graduation, she plans to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree in Electrical Systems Technology, obtain her electrician’s license and continue building her future in the field she loves.

Her ultimate goal brings everything full circle.

“I want to help expand my dad’s business, and when he’s ready to retire, take over,” she said. “It’s really cool to be able to work with him in the meantime.”

Along the way, local industry partners have helped enrich the academy experience. Students have toured Duke Energy’s training facility and Greenheck Group’s TAP plant, explored career opportunities with Day & Zimmermann, heard from Fountain Electric professionals and connected with organizations such as NCWorks, the State Employees Credit Union and the NC Board of Electrical Contractors.

For Veliz, those experiences have reinforced what she already suspected when she first signed up for the academy: she’s found the path she wants to follow.

And thanks to the opportunities available through 天涯海角社区, she’s already well on her way.

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A Head Start on Success /a-head-start-on-success/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:29:04 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/a-head-start-on-success/ Lillianna Scott’s Career and College Promise Experience Lillianna Scott is an intelligent, poised and well-spoken young woman whose college journey began as a high school student.  Encouraged by friends who spoke highly of the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, Lillianna saw an opportunity she couldn鈥檛 pass up. 鈥淚 wanted to...

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A Head Start on Success

Lillianna Scott's senior portrait

Lillianna Scott’s Career and College Promise Experience

Lillianna Scott is an intelligent, poised and well-spoken young woman whose college journey began as a high school student.  Encouraged by friends who spoke highly of the Career and College Promise (CCP) program, Lillianna saw an opportunity she couldn鈥檛 pass up.

鈥淚 wanted to further my education for free,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 knew it would be challenging, and I wanted to push myself.鈥�

Therefore, while a student at Shelby High School, Lillianna enrolled in college-level classes, taught by 天涯海角社区 instructors, onsite at her high school. Other classes she took online.

鈥淚 love the 天涯海角社区 classes,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he professors are so caring, and they make learning fun.鈥�

Through the CCP program, Lillianna earned her Associate in Science, and a Basic Healthcare Certificate, before graduating from high school. She participated in 天涯海角社区鈥檚 commencement ceremony on May 14, marking the completion of her college credentials. Just weeks later, on May 29, she graduated from Shelby High School.

Lillianna Scott walks across the stage at 天涯海角社区's commencement ceremony.

Now, she鈥檚 preparing for the next phase of her educational journey.

This fall, Lillianna will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a recipient of the prestigious Morehead-Cain Scholarship, where she plans to major in biology and eventually pursue dental school. Her long-term goal is clear: to become a dentist and one day own her own practice.

By enrolling in CCP classes Lillianna knew she was getting a head start on the college credits she needs to achieve her ultimate goal but got much more than she expected. In addition to learning the subject matter, she learned good study habits and time management. She also overcame challenges and gained confidence.

Among Lillianna鈥檚 most meaningful experiences was her progression in Spanish coursework. By her senior year, she was taking her third college-level Spanish class, and the final exam required a live Zoom interview conducted entirely in Spanish.

鈥淲hen I first started the class, I thought, 鈥業 can鈥檛 do that.鈥欌�� But by the end of the course, she surprised herself. Her Spanish instructor, Rebecca Sisk, played a significant role in that growth, helping her develop both skill and confidence in the language. During the final, she said, 鈥淚 felt confident, and when my instructor told me how well I did, I felt really proud.鈥�

As Lillianna prepares for the next chapter, she carries with her the knowledge, experience, and confidence gained through the Career and College Promise program. With a strong foundation and a clear sense of direction, she is ready to continue pursuing her goals.

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Brandy Licona-Tello is Building a Future With Purpose /brandy-licona-tello-is-building-a-future-with-purpose/ Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/brandy-licona-tello-is-building-a-future-with-purpose/ By Briley Mellon, Marketing Intern Brandy Licona-Tello is a senior at 天涯海角社区 Early College High School, where she鈥檚 working toward receiving her high school diploma, Associate in Arts, and Criminal Justice Certificate simultaneously. She has dreamed of helping others since she was little and has done her due diligence in community service and anything law...

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Brandy Licona-Tello is Building a Future With Purpose

By Briley Mellon, Marketing Intern

Brandy Licona-Tello is a senior at 天涯海角社区 Early College High School, where she鈥檚 working toward receiving her high school diploma, Associate in Arts, and Criminal Justice Certificate simultaneously. She has dreamed of helping others since she was little and has done her due diligence in community service and anything law enforcement-related that she can get her hands on. Brandy is a part of her school鈥檚 Junior Civitan club, National Beta club, National Honor Society, and her school鈥檚 Hispanic Heritage planning committee. All of these clubs are service based, supporting her school and local community.

Brandy is one of those outstanding students who astounds you by her dedication and care for her community at such a young age. At 天涯海角社区, Brandy is an active member of the criminal justice club and holds an internship with Aaron Vassey, leader of the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program. Outside of school, Brandy is a member of the Gastonia Police Department鈥檚 youth cadet program and plans to start ride-alongs with the department. She has also been in contact with the State Trooper academy, where she has been reserved a spot to be a student trooper over the summer.

Brandy was inspired to get involved in law enforcement last year and has worked tirelessly to build a bright future toward that dream. Last year, she saw a female police officer in public and was taken aback by her stature. Looking at the woman was like looking in a mirror. She was short and petite like Brandy, but you could tell she was passionate about her work. 鈥淪omething in me just sparked in that moment. Asking a female as a female, because I know it is a male-dominated field… I felt in that moment she gave me lots of courage, lots of hope, like if this is what I really want – then don鈥檛 be afraid to do it.鈥�

Brandy works hard to achieve her goals because she wants to be a source of motivation for those around her. Beyond her intrinsic motivation to influence others, she says her father is a major inspiration for her. Brandy said watching her dad start his own landscaping business from the ground up and progressing so far over the years to support his family has showed her to never give up. Brandy鈥檚 father鈥檚 desire to provide her with things he never had, gives her the drive to do everything she wants in life. 鈥淎nd honestly, all those accomplishments that I鈥檝e been able to get or to be able to accomplish is for them.鈥�

Brandy is grateful for her family and the community connections she has made through the help of her school. After learning about her interest in law enforcement, Mrs. Edie Greenlee, a teacher at 天涯海角社区 Early College High School, helped Brandy get involved with the Shelby Police Department.

Brandy also looks up to Aaron Vassey at 天涯海角社区 because of the encouragement he gives her to pursue what she wants to do. During her BLET internship, she has been able to experience early morning roll call, training scenarios, a visit from a state trooper, and a trip to the gun range. Brandy鈥檚 main goal is to become a state trooper; her internship makes this dream feel real.

Becoming a state trooper will not be just a dream for long. Brandy has a plan. After high school graduation, she plans to join the National Guard for the experience and to help pay for college. Then she will enroll in Belmont Abbey鈥檚 bachelor鈥檚 degree in criminology program. Brandy is known for always striving to help her family and peers around her; you can tell she鈥檚 in it for all the right reasons. “In general, I just feel like I鈥檝e always had that drive to help others and to hopefully make a difference in the world. I hope, later in my life, that I get to be an example to other females or be able to help others change lives.鈥�

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Kayla Williamson Balances Ambition, Academics, and Artistry /kayla-williamson-balances-ambition-academics-and-artistry/ Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:20:11 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/kayla-williamson-balances-ambition-academics-and-artistry/ Kayla Williamson, a senior at Kings Mountain High School and a Career and College Promise (CCP) student at 天涯海角社区, stays busy, like most high school seniors. However, Kayla鈥檚 version of busy is a little different than most. Whether she鈥檚 preparing for a future in healthcare, styling clients鈥� hair, or cheering her team to...

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Kayla Williamson Balances Ambition, Academics, and Artistry

Kayla Williamson, a senior at Kings Mountain High School and a Career and College Promise (CCP) student at 天涯海角社区, stays busy, like most high school seniors. However, Kayla鈥檚 version of busy is a little different than most.

Whether she鈥檚 preparing for a future in healthcare, styling clients鈥� hair, or cheering her team to victory, Kayla embraces every opportunity.

Through the CCP program, Kayla is already taking meaningful steps toward her future career. She is completing college-level coursework, including biology and other prerequisites, and is currently enrolled in 天涯海角社区鈥檚 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program with plans to take her state certification exam in May. All of this is preparation for transferring to UNC Charlotte to pursue a nursing degree. But nursing is not her ultimate goal. She鈥檚 reaching further.

鈥淚 want to be an anesthesiologist because it鈥檚 challenging,鈥� Kayla said. 鈥淵ou care for the patient before and during surgery. Being there for patients is really important to me because that鈥檚 a life decision they make.鈥�

That drive to take on challenges shows up in every area of her life. Kayla maintains straight A鈥檚, participates in honors clubs, and cheers for her high school and on a competitive squad. Her commitment has helped lead the Kings Mountain High School cheer squad to impressive success, including two state championships. She has also earned individual honors, including Most Valuable Cheerleader and Most Dedicated Cheerleader for the 2024鈥�2025 season.

Kayla Williamson in her KMHS cheerleading uniform

Outside of academics and athletics, Kayla has turned a creative outlet into a growing side business. 鈥淚 started doing my own hair when I was about 12,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hen I started doing my cousin鈥檚 hair, and I just always loved it.鈥�

Encouraged by Dr. Christina Hill, a dean at 天涯海角社区, Kayla enrolled in the Natural Hair Care class during the summer of 2025 鈥渏ust for fun,鈥� but quickly turned it into a professional opportunity. After completing the class, Kayla passed the NC Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners written and practical exams. She is 天涯海角社区鈥檚 first CCP student to become a licensed Natural Hair Care Specialist.

She now works at Creative Salon in Kings Mountain, where she serves about five clients each week, balancing appointments with school and extracurriculars.

Kayla plans to continue doing hair while attending UNC Charlotte. Always planning three steps ahead, Kayla chose UNC Charlotte for its strong academic opportunities and proximity to home, but a major factor in her decision was that it offers a bridge program to Wake Forest University. That鈥檚 where Kayla plans to continue pursuing her ultimate career goal of becoming an anesthesiologist.

Throughout her journey, Kayla credits her family, especially her Aunt Kisha Smith, for their guidance and encouragement. 鈥淪he helped with the application process and picking a college,鈥� Kayla said. 鈥淪he has multiple degrees, gives speeches, and has always been a very uplifting and spiritual person.鈥�

As graduation approaches, Kayla is reflecting on everything she has accomplished. 鈥淚鈥檝e put in the hard work over the years,鈥� she said. 鈥淭o get to the finish line and know that I鈥檝e fulfilled my four years of high school the best way possible means a lot.鈥�

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Cyber Defender: 天涯海角社区 Student Finds Purpose in Protecting Others /cyber-defender-ccc-student-finds-purpose-in-protecting-others/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:06:06 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/cyber-defender-ccc-student-finds-purpose-in-protecting-others/ 天涯海角社区 student Chad Pinyan started down the path into cybersecurity with a simple goal: to help people. After spending more than a decade at home caring for his disabled mother and raising his daughter, Chad decided it was time to pursue a new career. Once his daughter went off to college, he was...

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Cyber Defender: 天涯海角社区 Student Finds Purpose in Protecting Others

Kayla Williamson

天涯海角社区 student Chad Pinyan started down the path into cybersecurity with a simple goal: to help people.

After spending more than a decade at home caring for his disabled mother and raising his daughter, Chad decided it was time to pursue a new career. Once his daughter went off to college, he was ready. He wanted a career that would enable him to continue making a difference.

That decision led him to 天涯海角社区, where he enrolled in the cybersecurity program, and later added two more related programs to enhance his skills and broaden his career opportunities. He will graduate in May 2026 with three associate degrees. 鈥淭he instructors at 天涯海角社区 gave me the guidance and confidence I needed to succeed in this field,鈥� Chad said.

As part of his cybersecurity program, Chad completed a Work-Based Learning (WBL) course that provides students with hands-on experience in their chosen field of study. He secured a summer internship with the Carolina Cyber Network (CCN), where he gained valuable real-world experience working alongside a skilled cybersecurity team.

During his internship, Chad deepened his technical knowledge and honed his leadership and teamwork abilities. He even helped organize a cybersecurity workshop on 天涯海角社区鈥檚 campus to educate local small businesses about online safety and data protection. Plans are in place to hold six more workshops during the spring 2026 semester.

After one of those workshops, a participant sent a letter praising its value. The attendee stated, 鈥淣ot only was I educated about cybercrime tactics, but it also provided steps I can implement on my devices to help protect against digital threats.鈥� The attendee went on to praise the help they received from Chad, saying, 鈥淢r. Pinyan is a valuable resource for anyone needing assistance with cybersecurity on their computer or smartphone device.鈥�

Chad鈥檚 supervisor, Gabe Lindsey, praised his initiative and professionalism, 鈥淐had consistently looked for ways to help others and demonstrated exceptional growth. His leadership and communication skills stood out.鈥�

That impact didn鈥檛 go unnoticed. After completing his internship, Carolina Cyber Network created a new position specifically for Chad. On September 10, 2025, he officially became CCN鈥檚 new Cybersafe Community Assistant. A few months into that new position, Chad says things are going great, 鈥渨orking with the community to help protect them.鈥�

Outside of work, Chad continues using his cybersecurity knowledge to serve others. He developed a program at his church to help community members recognize scams and online threats, and he has, of course, helped protect his mother from potential fraud attempts.

When asked why he chose cybersecurity, Chad doesn鈥檛 hesitate with his answer: 鈥淭o help people.鈥�

Reflecting on his journey, he credits Work-Based Learning as a defining experience. 鈥淚 not only learned more about cybersecurity,鈥� Chad said, 鈥渂ut I also learned how to work on a team, manage disagreements, and be patient. The experience confirmed that I鈥檓 on the right path.鈥�

Chad is one example of how hands-on learning, dedicated instructors, and strong industry partnerships at 天涯海角社区 can transform ambition into opportunity.

Interested in cyber security? Check out 天涯海角社区鈥檚 Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology 鈥� Cyber Security or other programs of study in the Information Technology field.

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It Gets Greater Later: Faith Houser鈥檚 Story /it-gets-greater-later-faith-housers-story/ Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:44:11 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/it-gets-greater-later-faith-housers-story/ Written by Briley Mellon, ECHS Senior and 天涯海角社区 Marketing Intern When Faith Houser graduated from 天涯海角社区 in 2020, she had no idea she would be back five years later, serving as SGA (Student Government Association) president once again. Back then, Faith earned her Associate in Arts and Associate in General Education degrees. This year, she...

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It Gets Greater Later: Faith Houser鈥檚 Story

Faith Houser seated on sofa, smiling.

Written by Briley Mellon, ECHS Senior and 天涯海角社区 Marketing Intern

When Faith Houser graduated from 天涯海角社区 in 2020, she had no idea she would be back five years later, serving as SGA (Student Government Association) president once again. Back then, Faith earned her Associate in Arts and Associate in General Education degrees. This year, she returned to enroll in the nursing program. She was excited to revisit SGA, but thought she would simply help the new SGA team (not end up as president again). However, her experience benefits not only the SGA team but also the student body.聽聽

As a leader, Faith says many students come to her with personal issues that require outside resources. Specifically, Faith had been approached during her previous presidency by students who were facing hunger and were on the verge of homelessness. To help those students, she proposed a food drive at 天涯海角社区. Today, TRIO has taken on that responsibility and continues to distribute food to our students in need. Faith still prioritizes students in need. One of her current focuses is the proposal of a childcare facility at 天涯海角社区 to help students who are struggling to stay in school because they can鈥檛 afford daycare and don鈥檛 have anyone to help them.

Faith can pursue her ambitions and help other students because she got involved in clubs despite her own challenges. 鈥淚 hope that I鈥檓 able to show other students that it is possible to succeed as they鈥檙e going through different challenges. I actually have one lung, and when I first came to this school, I had no idea how to begin getting involved in clubs,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 had been discouraged because of my disability. But then at 天涯海角社区, I gained a lot of family. Staying engaged and joining clubs is what helped me in school.鈥澛犅�

Joining TRIO-SSS and meeting Annette Toms, who was the program coordinator at the time, was what enlightened Faith. It started with a TRIO-sponsored trip to New York City during COVID. She says, 鈥淭he trip enlightened me a lot because those messages they gave us, those engagements, those games we played made us think about our life and our plan鈥nd after that, I was ready to go.鈥� That one trip sparked her desire to give back to her community inside and outside 天涯海角社区. By enrolling in 天涯海角社区鈥檚 nursing program, she can build her credentials and skills as a healthcare facility manager. Faith鈥檚 big plans for her future don鈥檛 end with her; they extend to 天涯海角社区’s future and its students. 

Her advice to any student who feels misplaced, discouraged, insecure, or unfulfilled is to 鈥渟tay the course.鈥� You鈥檙e not going to be the perfect person, and you鈥檙e not going to be the person you want to be if you do not push yourself through the hard times and ask for help along the way. 鈥淚 would like to encourage people to just stick to whatever it is. It gets better. It gets greater later,鈥� says Faith. 鈥淪o, anybody who鈥檚 going through anything [and wants that support and community], start joining. Just take the initiative to get up and join because you never know what can change.鈥�   

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A Hard First Step, Amazing Results /a-hard-first-step-amazing-results/ Fri, 10 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/a-hard-first-step-amazing-results/ Returning to school as an adult wasn’t easy, but it changed everything. After more than a decade away from school, Miranda Parks made the life-changing decision to earn her GED. What pushed her forward wasn鈥檛 just the dream of a better future; it was her son. She wanted to show him, by example, that it鈥檚...

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A Hard First Step, Amazing Results

Miranda Parks in cap and gown showing off her diploma and holding flowers.

Returning to school as an adult wasn’t easy, but it changed everything.

After more than a decade away from school, Miranda Parks made the life-changing decision to earn her GED. What pushed her forward wasn鈥檛 just the dream of a better future; it was her son. She wanted to show him, by example, that it鈥檚 never too late to chase your goals, no matter how far off they might seem.

鈥淭he decision to go back to school changed my life,鈥� Miranda says.

A Fresh Start

When Miranda walked into 天涯海角社区 (天涯海角社区) for the first time, she had to deal with uncertainty, but she didn鈥檛 let it get the best of her. Even though 11 years had passed since she鈥檇 last sat in a classroom, she was ready to begin again. Through 天涯海角社区鈥檚 College and Career Readiness program, she found the support, encouragement, and resources she needed, and matched them with her own relentless drive.

Preparing for the GED became more than studying for a test. It was proof to herself that she could overcome obstacles and create new opportunities. When she took the exam and passed, it was a wonderful milestone, but it also confirmed that she was strong enough to accomplish whatever she set her mind to.

Pushing Further

The success of earning her GED lit a fire in Miranda. She realized she didn鈥檛 just want to finish what she started. She wanted to go further. After earning her GED, she enrolled in 天涯海角社区鈥檚 Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology program, tackling a new challenge that would provide her with a specialized skill set and create new opportunities.

Her persistence paid off. Miranda earned two certificates in the program but wasn鈥檛 ready to stop. She continued her education and graduated with a diploma in Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology in May 2025. It wasn鈥檛 easy, but all the hard work brought her closer to the future she envisioned for herself and her family.

Leading by Example

For Miranda, success means more than grades or credentials. It鈥檚 about growth, confidence, and setting an example for her son. After graduating with her diploma, she kept going, enrolling in 天涯海角社区鈥檚 summer Refinishing Class through Continuing Education, where she applied her new skills to refinish her own car, a shining symbol of how far she鈥檚 come.

A Journey Worth Celebrating

Miranda鈥檚 story is a powerful reminder that changing your life takes more than opportunity. It takes courage, heart, and the willingness to start again. She didn鈥檛 just earn a diploma or learn a trade; she built confidence, resilience, and a legacy of determination that will inspire others.

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GED to College: Makenzie’s Inspiring Journey /ged-to-college-makenzies-inspiring-journey/ Wed, 09 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://clevelandc2stg.wpenginepowered.com/ged-to-college-makenzies-inspiring-journey/ Overcoming Life’s Challenges to Finish High School Makenzie’s high school journey was interrupted in 10th grade, right as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. At 16 years old, she worked 60-hour weeks while caring for her sick grandmother. With overwhelming responsibilities, school had to be put on hold. After her grandmother passed away, Makenzie鈥攖hen just 17鈥攆ound herself...

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GED to College: Makenzie’s Inspiring Journey

Overcoming Life’s Challenges to Finish High School

Makenzie’s high school journey was interrupted in 10th grade, right as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. At 16 years old, she worked 60-hour weeks while caring for her sick grandmother. With overwhelming responsibilities, school had to be put on hold.

After her grandmother passed away, Makenzie鈥攖hen just 17鈥攆ound herself starting over entirely on her own. She was on the verge of entering a shelter when a coworker told her about an available apartment. A kind landlord took a chance on her, helping her with everything from car repairs to rent forgiveness after she broke her foot.

鈥淗e helped me get on my feet,鈥� she recalls. That support made all the difference.

Working Adults Returning to School

For two years, Makenzie juggled multiple jobs to make ends meet. Eventually, she landed a job at CVS, where she quickly rose to shift manager within six months.

鈥淚 don鈥檛 want to do it forever,鈥� she says with a smile, 鈥渂ut it鈥檚 great for now.鈥�

Even though her life had stabilized, she still had a dream: finishing school. She enrolled in an online adult high school program but found it wasn’t the right fit.

That’s when she discovered the College and Career Readiness department at 天涯海角社区鈥攁nd everything changed.

Earning Her GED with Support from 天涯海角社区

鈥淭he staff here is amazing,鈥� Makenzie says. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e patient and don鈥檛 judge you. I was worried about being judged.鈥�

Instead, she found encouragement. She earned her GED and is now enrolled in college classes, building a future she once thought was out of reach.

鈥淭here was a time when I didn鈥檛 think I鈥檇 make it to 15. I鈥檓 proud of where I am now.鈥�

She鈥檚 currently completing prerequisites to enter 天涯海角社区鈥檚 nursing program, with plans to continue her education and specialize as a psychiatric nurse for children.

鈥淚 was one of those kids,鈥� she explains. 鈥淚 want to help people鈥攅specially kids.鈥�

She鈥檚 also inspired by the idea of becoming a travel nurse, which would combine her passion for helping others with her love of exploration.

Advice for Adult Learners Going Back to School

Makenzie鈥檚 advice for others is powerful:

鈥淵ou can鈥檛 give up on yourself. At some point, you have to take responsibility and believe in yourself.鈥�

Her story shows how far grit, compassion, and community support can take you.

Ready to Rewrite Your Story?

You don’t need to have it all figured out鈥攜ou just need a place to start.

At 天涯海角社区, our programs are designed to help adult learners finish high school, earn a GED, and prepare for a new career. Whether you left school years ago or recently, we’ll meet you where you are with patience, support, and a plan.

No judgement. Just support.

Learn more about our GED and adult high school programs.

Or call us at 704-669-4050 today.

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