This letter is in reference to my experience in the MMRACE Adult Ed program here in Waterville. For me, my motivation was to please my mom, who recently passed away. Over the years, she knew I worked hard and how little I got paid. She believed that if I earned my HSD I would have a chance at a better job and better pay.

After she passed, I decided to fulfill her wish and I signed up at the Mid Maine Regional Community Education (Waterville’s adult education program). At first, my attitude was not good. I wanted to give up. The team here kept saying, “Keep going! You can do this … No giving up!” I started to enjoy myself and realized that I still knew a lot of stuff. So I kept coming and getting things right.

I would say to anyone who is thinking about a HSD or feels bad that they never got their HSD to come to Adult Ed and see how much they do know. I realized I’m not that stupid and I kept feeling good about what I did know. (Oh, and you are not allowed to use “stupid” in class … ever!) I had a lot of stuff get in the way over the years and I kept giving up. It took my mom’s passing for me to finally finish.

Today I am marching with my other Adult Ed graduates. You have no idea how this makes me feel. I feel amazing: I am able to show not just my mom but my whole family.

Don’t keep putting it off. Age doesn’t matter and the way your life is. Just go and sign up!

Karen Smith

Waterville