2 minute read
Never Give Up; It Gets Better
By Shaneequa Pettway Staff Writer
As someone who dropped out of college after high school, I can say that it was my biggest mistake.
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All I wanted to do was party and be with my friends. I regretted it for years. I complained about how I could have been this, how I could have been that, only if I stayed in school. It was terrible.
I was working odd, dead end jobs in places I hated. I was doing nothing with my life. I was being called a bum and a failure.
My slogan was, “At least I graduated high school, it’s a start.”
I sugarcoated my education. I knew I wanted better.
Before and after having my daughter, I knew I wanted better for me, so that she can have better. I want her to have what I didn’t have growing up. She was my motivation. I told myself, “Just apply!” I couldn’t bring myself to do so, and I discouraged myself by making excuses.
Well, I finally did it, and so here I am. During my first semester, I thought so many times I was going to give up, but one of my teachers told me I’d be a fool if I did. I applied, I got accepted, I had financial aid, and I was finally in class.Why would I come this far to quit now? That right there made me push through the semester like it was my job.
Housatonic was my choice because it was close. But I am glad I chose it. Your teachers and advisor will help you. They will push you to do great, and they care about your education. It’s not just a game for them; they want you to succeed.
Sometimes there will be obstacles in your way that will block your judgement on finishing school. But, if you’ve come so far, jump over those obstacles and keep pushing.
Whether you’re doing it for you, or doing it for your child and family, never give up. Quitters never win and winners never quit! I believe in you, and I don’t even know you. You got this!
