Kayla K.

At the age of sixteen Kayla had become a high school drop out. Kayla had a difficult time for most of her teenage years. She found herself on her own, with both parents deceased. She had no family to turn to and knew that in order to get somewhere in life she was going to need to get an education.

The “turning point” that motivated Kayla to pursue her education was when her mother passed away. She then realized how important her education would be to her future. No one in Kayla’s family had ever graduated from high school let alone attend college. Kayla was then determined to become the first to graduate with a high school credential so her plans for post secondary education could become a reality. She wanted to better her life and ensure a successful future for herself. Going to school was a huge part of that plan.

Kayla’s MEOC Advisor has been a big help. Kayla states that Christy “is the one who got my whole college future set up.” Her MEOC advisor helped fill out all the financial aid paper work including the FAFSA form, as well as filling out all the college admissions paperwork and helped with the entire admissions process. Kayla said that Christy still calls to see how things are going, and these check ins have been a huge support.

Kayla was the student speaker at her graduation ceremony with Lewiston Adult Education. She was also the recipient of the Courage To Grow Award that was given by the Adult Education in conjunction with Central Maine Community College. She was also eligible for a scholarship that paid for one of her college courses.

Kayla finished her first semester at Central Maine Community College with a 3.5 GPA.

Kayla plans to earn her associates degree through Central Maine Community College, and transfer to a 4-year college to earn her Bachelors degree in Education.

Kayla’s decision to attend college will forever affect the rest of her life. She says if she had never started college she would be stuck in a low paying job, and forced to work at jobs that she did not enjoy. Going to college will open the gates for Kayla that will lead to many great things. She will be able to make her dreams and goals come true and go on to educate others. Kayla stated, “College, I think is a great thing!”