GED Stories

Michelle’s Story

When I was in 3rd grade the doctor diagnosed me with ADHD. My mother refused to let me take medication for my ADHD. I struggled every day until the end of 9th grade I just gave up. I refused to go back to school. I didn’t understand the point of going to school.

I am now 27 years old, and I received my GED on the 17th of January 2008. One of the most proudest days of my life. Throughout the years I tried several times to get my GED but I gave up. For years people told me I couldn’t do it, I was worthless. So I began to believe it and then slowly began telling myself the same things.

Until approximately 4 months ago I went back on welfare after losing another crappy job. They made me go to full time GED classes. Two years prior to that I had passed my science and social studies test, so I only had three tests left. I started classes in November 2007, I decided to put all my effort and time into educating myself. I brought home the books and forced myself to learn the information in the books.

On January 16th 2008 I took my math test and received the results on the 18th that I had passed. That was one of the happiest times in my life. I have more confidence in myself now, and I will be enrolling into college in the fall. I view my future through a different set of eyes now, and I am unstoppable.

I left school because I did not know how to manage my ADHD and was told I was stupid. But I got my GED to prove to myself I was worth a better life. My goal was to get my GED by the end of January 2008, and I have accomplished that. Then I will be enrolling in to college for a degree in Criminal Justice.

Don’t give up on yourself, and life is what you make of it……..

Michelle Cool, 27, Moses Lake, WA

Michelle, Thanks for sharing your success with other GED students. It’s so important to stop listening to those voices that always say, “You can’t.” Your story can help others realize that they can get their GEDs, too.

The GED Academy