More than 200 students of all ages donned caps and gowns for Wake Tech’s Spring graduation ceremony for students receiving their GED or high school diploma through the college’s Adult High School (AHS) program. Graduates included migrant workers who completed their GED through the High School Equivalency Program (HEP), funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

Of the graduates, 199 students received their GED and 33 students received diplomas. Students from each of the three programs (GEP, AHS and HEP) shared their inspirational stories with the rest of the graduates, their families, instructors and other invited guests.

One student spoke of her challenges as a single mother living in a halfway house. She juggled work, GED classes, study time, and her responsibilities as a parent. Nonetheless, she passed all her GED tests – even the math test, which required extra effort! So determined in her resolve to provide a good life for her baby, she enrolled in Wake Tech's Certified Nursing Assistant program while studying for the GED. She has now completed the first level CNA class with flying colors and is ready for Level II.

Another student who received her GED through HEP talked about her family struggles and her desire for a brighter future. At one time, she, her seven siblings and her mother were homeless. Feeling like a burden to her mother, she dropped out of high school and searched for a job. When her younger sister asked, “Why should I stay in school if you dropped out?" she began to re-evaluate her life. This determined young lady passed all five parts of the GED. Now she would like to enroll in Wake Tech’s nursing program or another health sciences field, and use her bilingual skills in her future career.

Studies show most graduates will stay in the Triangle area after graduation, will continue their education, and be better equipped to help meet the workforce needs community. With the money they earn, they will contribute to the local economy.