GED Stories

Name: Shannon
Age: 20
City and State: Manheim, Pennsylvania

What motivated you to get your GED? I had to end high school only having a 10th grade education due to mental health problems. I got pregnant a year after that and was unable to attend school. My daughter is 8 months old, and she deserves more from me than what I’ve settled for. She changed my life. She made me believe in myself, and now I need to give her more. I want to believe in myself as much as she does.

How have your friends and family helped you? I don’t have many friends or family. I was in foster care, but my boyfriend believes in me and my daughter, and really that’s all I need except to believe in myself. I’ve been trying so hard but have not reached any result. Now I feel it’s time for me to believe in myself as much as they do.

What problems have you faced? I don’t drive. I’m on a government income so transportation and financial are major problems.

What do you hope to gain from getting your GED? I want to go to culinary school and open up my own restaurant. I want a better life for me and my family.

Please, please help me, but if you can’t, give me some advice, tips on what my next step should be.

Shannon,

We know that having a child changes your life. It’s the incentive for a lot of people to get their GED and start on a career path that can sustain them and their families. We also know that transportation and finances are big problems. That’s why the GED Academy strives to make a study-at-home program that anyone can do on their home computer, and that don’t cost too much. You can call 800-460-8150 to talk to a teacher about your situation and what you need.

You’re probably closer to achieving your GED than you think, and there is a lot of help available to get started. The state of Pennsylvania also has a website with good information local to you: Pennsylvania GED. Visit the website to learn about testing centers and local help.

Keep in mind that you’re doing this for your daughter and for your future. Don’t let anything stop you. You’ll never regret getting your GED.

The GED Academy