Adult Ed Students Chase the Dream

Marisol Morales, a Mexican immigrant and mother of two, hopes to become a pharmacy technician. And thanks to the Adult Education program at Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES, she is on her way to making that dream a reality.

Morales, who received her GED, was one of three graduate speakers at the Adult Education Commencement Ceremony Monday evening.  “I was very lucky to have wonderful teachers,” she told fellow graduates, family members and friends. “We were like a big family.”

Miguel Villeda, who also graduated, said when he came to the United State five years ago, he did not know English but he was inspired by all the opportunities he saw in this country. “Today is an unforgettable day because I achieved my first goal in America—to earn my GED,” he said. “My journey doesn’t end here. It is just the start.”

Farida Osman, a former graduate of the Adult Education program, said when she came to the United States from west Ghana in 2011, she had to begin all over again with her education. But she said BOCES had great instructors who helped her earn her GED. Now, she is preparing for her second graduation ceremony. She will graduate from BOCES LPN program Tuesday.

“This is a land of great opportunities,” she said. “It has given me the opportunity to earn my GED and become a nurse in just three years!”

Assistant Superintendent Lynn Allen praised the graduates, and those who received special recognition for their progress in the program to date, for their sacrifices and hard work. “I’m sure you had to make difficult choices to pursue your education,” she said. “Savor every moment of what you have achieved here tonight.”