Juggling school and taking care of three young boys – not everyone could do it, but Quanisha Parker is not everyone! She pushed through various challenges because she had the end in mind and knew that with the help of her teacher, Missy Meredith, and other encouragers, Kelly McClain and Nancy Myers, she could earn her diploma!
In March of 2019, Quanisha began attending Missy’s HSE classes while her sons were also in class just down the hall. Vincennes University Adult Education partners with EVSC Even Start – a family literacy program where families and their young children come to school together. This program made it possible for Quanisha to complete her degree since Kelly (one of the women mentioned above) would teach and take care of her boys while she was in class.
Quanisha’s Story:
When I was 16, I went to North and then Bosse. My mom was drinking a lot, the lights kept getting cut off… There was a lot going on in my life that prevented me from finishing high school.
Before I started classes at Culver, I had already tried going back to school three times, but I always had obstacles in my way. I had just moved back from Wisconsin and I finally had a chance to get my diploma since I had daycare for my boys at Culver. There was a lot more communication and support there; it was like a family. Having Ms. Missy, Ms. Kelly, and Ms. Nancy telling me, “You can do it!” helped me to keep going when things got hard.
I took the test on December 16 and passed all 5 subjects on the first try. Just knowing I passed made me really excited and proud! I had doubts with my math; I just had a feeling I was not going to pass it. I don’t know why, but when I got to the test, it was easier than I thought it would be. Not easy, but easier.
Getting my HSE helped me believe that I can do anything and not give up. I can go to college and have a career now! I’m a step closer to my goal: to go to hair school to be a hairstylist. I just want to be successful in life and give my kids a better life than I had. My past isn’t an excuse – it is motivation.
I want to attend graduation. It means everything to me and my family. They keep asking me when it is. I know they’re proud of me, and I am proud of myself.
To others who want to get their HSE, I would say, “It may not be easy, but don’t give up!
Quanisha’s teacher, Missy, says of her, “She is a strong and committed young lady. She set a goal and overcame many obstacles to achieve her dream. Quanisha has a promising future ahead of her.” She has plans to attend Salon Professional Academy and obtain her Cosmetology License.
Congratulations, Quanisha!!