During my time at college I have had the advantage of being able to be a part of Educate America Right Now, which has contributed to my success. The support that comes from the Program is something that I wish everyone had the opportunity to be involved in. To me, EARN has become like my second family and they have allowed me to understand that I am not alone in the struggles that appear along the journey towards academic freedom."

 

       The sharing with each other has been unforgettable. Hearing the accomplishments and struggles that we each have shared, draws us closer together and gives me inspiration to continue, even when adversity raises its head in my direction. They (EARN) have allowed me to move from the homeless shelter to a rooming house and then from the rooming house to my own apartment."

 

   The most important reason for my return back to school was to encourage and motivate my son, and to not only tell him how important education and college is, but to show him. EARN has helped me in this process tremendously. The EARN grant being tied to my GPA has been extremely important because it gave me the incentive to try harder at my courses. The award ceremonies with EARN at Hartford Hall have been extremely important. The ceremonies make me feel that my hard work has not been ignored."

 

         At this point I hold a 4.0 GPA and have recently been invited to joined Phi Theta Kappa and Alpha Beta Gamma Honor Society. The EARN grant has afforded me the ability to pay for expenses that otherwise would have accrued throughout the school year. The GPA requirements combined with the meetings at Hartford Hall helps me in my journey to better myself and to keep up the good progress. David and Jessica have provided a healthy foundation to help me forge ahead. Their stories along with the stories of other EARN recipients of overcoming challenges is inspiring. I am proud to be a part of this movement."