The Dream of College Now Reality
When 17-year old Angela Mercado left Ecuador for the United States, she never dreamed of going to college. That dream developed later, while enrolled in the Adult Learning Center’s "Get Ready for College" program.
Now 31, the busy mom of four volunteers in the community and is enrolled in her first semester as a full time college student. For her volunteer efforts in the local schools as an interpreter and advocate for immigrant parents, as well as other volunteer activities, she received an award from Governor Lynch, presented by the Commissioner of Education, in October 2009.
Angela cites the Adult Learning Center as the critical element on her path to further her education. Says Angela, “it all started here.” Nine years ago, Angela began English for Speakers of Other Language (ESOL) classes, which led her to take and pass the GED, and then on to computer courses and the "Get Ready for College” program. These classes prepared her for her full course load at Nashua Community College. Although being a student can be hectic, Angela also finds all of her classes interesting. Her goal is to enter the Human Services field so she can help the community “the same way that I was helped by the Adult Learning Center.”
According to Angela, while some people may possess the ambition to go to school, lack of child care can be a barrier. However, Angela tapped into the services provided by the Adult Learning Center, and enrolled her children in the child care program while she attended school. Her advice is to take advantage of the resources provided by the Adult Learning Center and other human service agencies in Nashua.
What words of wisdom can Angela provide to current Adult Learning Center students? When it comes to education, Angela says, “Get your GED. But don’t stop there. Make the effort to learn as much as possible so you can get a degree, get a better job, and better support your family.” Angela herself is motivated by her family. “Everything I do is for my family,” she says. She strives to further her education in an effort not only to improve her family’s circumstances but also to make an imprint on her children on the importance of education.
With her resourcefulness, ambition, and passion for her family and community, Angela’s future knows no limits. The Adult Learning Center is proud to have Angela as a student and looks forward to what Angela accomplishes next. |