Adult students share the positive impacts of completing English as a second language, high school diploma and citizenship courses
It’s the American Dream to get an education, work hard and prosper, but sometimes, life gets in the way. At Southwest Riverside Adult Education (SRAE) schools, adult learners can get their education back on track and build a solid foundation for a new life.
New country, new life
Even under the best of circumstances, moving to a new country is hard: Learning new languages and customs can make everyday tasks like going to the supermarket or driving to work challenging. Valley Adult School in Lake Elsinore offers English as a Second Language (ESL) classes taught by instructors who want to see their students succeed.
“We all have goals when we come here as an immigrant, you don’t have to just sit around,” says Nebila Abdullahi. “You do have to focus on things and improve your English and get a job.”
“You don’t have to be perfect, just take that first step, and you will learn more and feel more confident.”
Nebila Abdullahi, Advanced ESL Student, Valley Adult School
Abdullahi immigrated from Ethiopia in 2016 and has been hard at work since. She’s currently an advanced ESL student earning her high school diploma (although she has the equivalent degree from Ethiopia) and is also completing caregiver and child development courses at the school. And, in 2023, she earned her U.S. citizenship.
Even with kids at home, she’s also working as a caregiver, a similar career to the one she had before coming to the U.S. Through her new education, her goal is to go into the healthcare or social work field.
“It was very hard going back to school as a mother, but it was important for me to improve my English and get a better job to take care of myself and my family,” she says, adding that learning English has boosted her self confidence. “I can help my kids with their homework and talk with their teachers at school, and I’ve learned to write and speak and be confident.”
Abdullahi advises others not to be afraid of taking the necessary steps to improve their lives and the lives of their families.
“Everyone learns at their own pace and the teachers are very patient and helpful,” she says. “I was nervous at first, too, but I’m so glad I joined the ESL class. You don’t have to be perfect, just take that first step, and you will learn more and feel more confident.”
Onward and upward
Lupita Ramirez Morales felt stuck at work. She wanted to advance into management, but didn’t have the high school diploma she needed. Thanks to Perris Community Adult School (PCAS)—and her own hard work—today she’s working as a supervisor, with higher management positions in her sights.
After a friend told her about the opportunities available through PCAS’ programs, Ramirez Morales enrolled in both the high school diploma and English as a second language (ESL) programs. She did so well the administration asked her to give the commencement speech at her June 2024 graduation. But going back to school, earning her diploma and learning English while working was not easy.
“Believe in yourself and take it one day at a time. It’s never too late to keep learning and move forward.”
Lupita Ramirez Morales, Graduate, Perris Community Adult School
“The hardest part is the English language, being challenged to fully understand and express myself,” she says. “It was hard, especially after work … but if you want to do it, you can.”
Ramirez Morales says the key to balancing her work and school was PCAS’ flexible schedule and support from her teachers.
“The flexibility of the program allowed me to learn at my own pace, and it helped me stay focused and motivated,” she says, adding that her teachers were always available when she had questions. “They understood my struggles with English as well, and they were patient and kind.”
Ramirez Morales says she’s not done learning yet. Even though she’s graduated and her career is on an upward path, she is continuing her education and working on her English skills.
“There’s more room for improvement,” she says. “I’m focusing on this because I know I can do better.”
She encourages others to go back to school, even though it may be difficult. She says taking small steps—like enrolling in one class at a time—makes things easier to handle.
“My advice is not to be afraid to take that first step. You know, it’s normal to feel nervous, but you’re not alone. There are teachers and staff who truly want to help you to succeed,” she says. “No matter where you starting from, just stay focused on your goals. Believe in yourself and take it one day at a time. It’s never too late to keep learning and move forward.”
To find a school near you or for more information on how Southwest Riverside Adult Education can help you achieve your goals, visit sradulted.org.
Written by Anne Stokes
| Regions | Classes & Topics |
|---|---|
| Southern California | English as a Second Language |
