Support and determination are powerful allies

Meet Almarene Walker, a recent graduate of the Early Childhood Education Diploma Program at STC, and hear her story of dreams, determination and earned success: I went out looking for something I really wanted to do, but I found out that my choices were very limited. I didn’t have a high school diploma, but I had reached a point where I wanted a change in my life. I needed a foundation to build on, and so I enrolled in GED classes at Sandersville Technical College. While working on my GED, I met two of the greatest instructors, Ms. Dedra Spencer and Ms. Saketha Adams. They kept me motivated and encouraged to continue with my education. I even had the opportunity to represent Sandersville Technical College, in Atlanta, as an EAGLE Award recipient. I was the first student from Sandersville Technical College to make it to the finals of the EAGLE competition, and it was an honor for me and quite an experience. It inspired me to be more persistent in completing my goals. I received my GED in 2005, and I thank God for the opportunity and strength to do it.

With a brand new start, I enrolled in the Early Childhood Education Diploma Program. I found myself juggling classes, a job at Wal-Mart, a home, and wonderful husband, George Walker, my biggest supporter. Sometimes it got hard for me; however, I was determined to make a positive change in my life. My husband would often ask, “How much longer do you have to travel to Sandersville?” Finally, I was able to take my classes closer to my home at STC’s Jefferson County Center. That was much better for my husband and me.

Attending Sandersville Technical College has prepared me for that change I was looking for in my life. I got to work with different schools and daycares; and met a lot of encouraging people. I would like to thank the STC Jefferson County Center Staff and my instructor, Ms. Marie Brown for their help. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity to get the type of foundation which I can build my future on. This is truly a second chance that God has given me through Sandersville Technical College.

In December of 2007 I completed requirements for a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education. I thank everyone for their help and support!

Sandersville Technical College is proud of Almarene and wishes her continued success with her new career path.

(2008, Spring Quarter Issue). The Fall Line Connector, p 1.