National Adult Literacy Database

October 20, 2003

This week, we have a story written by Nina Turner, from Salisbury, New Brunswick. Nina is a single parent. She has severe back problems and studies from home, since she has been enrolled at the Salisbury Community Academic Services Program (CASP). Nina is a hard worker.

Why I went back to school

by Nina Turner

I decided to return to school because over the years I have had the chance to understand the concept of my education.

I left school when I was fifteen. Then that was okay with me, but now I understand that I cannot retain a job without the diploma from a graduating class.

Over the past 23 years there is so much that I could have done. After I graduated I could have gone to university for a few years; then I'd have a better chance to be what I've always wanted to be, which would be an airline stewardess or a truck driver for long haul. Even though that won't be able to happen, I can still fulfil my dream to graduate. I may have done lots of not-smart things through my lifetime, but now I'd like to be able to tell everyone I made it ..with a very large smile on my face.

Everyone has always had no faith in me, but there are three people that will never give up on me: my parents and my daughter.

Oh, will it ever be a dream come true, a diploma hanging on my living room wall, with my name on it.

[This story was taken with permission, from The CASPer, April 2003, the Moncton and Area CASP Newsletter.]