February 01, 2021

I went to Reitz my freshman year of high school. Then my family moved to Florida for my dad’s job, so I attended school there in the tenth and eleventh grades. I fell behind and didn’t have good enough grades to be able to graduate.

We eventually moved back to Evansville, and in February 2020, I decided it was the right time to go back to school. I knew it was all in my hands whether or not I would graduate. I chose to motivate myself to get my HSE because I had to get my life going and wanted to reach my potential.

Due to COVID, school shut down in March, but when it reopened in August, I returned to class with Ms. Waters. She encouraged me every day, and within a couple months, I was ready to take the test. I passed three subjects on my first try and only had reading and math left to go. I was able to try again and passed reading on my second try. All I had left was math; I wasn’t about to give up. 

Taking my math test a third time was nerve wracking, but I passed! I am very proud of myself. Having my HSE means that there are more opportunities in life, and it makes it easier for me to get a job. The classes helped me grow into a more socially involved person, and I’m more prepared for what lies ahead. 

A couple of big things have happened recently: I just got my license and have a car now, and I started working at Fazoli’s and Lewis Bakery. Now that I have money coming in, I am going to try to save up. In the future, I would like to flip houses. There is a possibility that I will eventually get more school or training. This program has enabled me to have a better start to my life. 

My advice to others is, “Don’t give up on yourself. Believe in yourself and do the work. If you do that, there will be a good outcome.”

Brody’s family is very supportive of him. His dad said, “Brody is trying to be the best he can be. I’m very proud of him.”

Brody’s instructor, Stacy Waters, shared, “Brody was a dedicated student who worked very hard every day to reach his goal of earning an HSE.” 

Stacy and the Vincennes University Adult Education Team are so proud of you, Brody! You never gave up, and look at you now – one of our success stories! Thanks for sharing your story and allowing us to be part of your journey. We wish you luck in all your future endeavors!!