Margie

 

For years, Margie hoped to earn her GED. At one point, she enrolled at Richard J. Daley College, but like many adult learners balancing responsibilities, she had to put her education on hold.

“Life happens,” Margie said. “I had to stop.”

Still, that goal never changed. When Margie had a chance to enroll in Adult Education classes at Olive-Harvey College, she decided it was time to try again.

“I never went to high school,” she said. “I had a second chance. I wanted to take advantage of it.”

Returning to the classroom after years away was intimidating at first. Margie worried she would be the oldest student in class and struggle to fit in. Instead, she found a supportive environment filled with adults who shared similar goals.

“There’s no drama, there’s no kidding around. It’s serious, but it’s fun.”

Throughout her studies, Margie found encouragement from instructors who took the time to make sure she understood the material and felt supported every step of the way.

She also became more involved on campus, accepting a role as a student ambassador. In that position, she helped fellow students navigate college resources and feel connected to the campus community.

Margie’s hard work paid off when she earned her GED—a milestone she had dreamed about for years. But she didn’t stop there. The very same week she completed her GED, she registered for college credit classes.

“Now I’m a college student,” she said. “That’s something I never imagined.”

Today, Margie is continuing her education and thinking about how she can give back to future students. She wants to be an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor at City Colleges of Chicago.

“Wherever they need instructors, I will be there,” she said.

Margie hopes her story inspires others who may be wondering if it’s too late to pursue their own educational goals.