Each day, school children across the community start their morning with a simple step.
That first step onto a school bus is followed by a warm greeting and a day’s worth of learning at the elementary, middle or high school level. Local school bus driver Alberto Estrada is the familiar face students see as they prepare for their day in class, spending time with friends and enjoying extracurricular activities.
Like them, he was determined to follow his path of growth and move toward a new, exciting chapter in his life. Willing and ready to continue his educational journey, Estrada spent time successfully completing and obtaining his GED certificate at Laredo College.
“I needed a way to spend my time on something that was going to better myself,” Estrada said. “That thought led me to get my GED certificate. To get a higher education, to do better for myself and to see what else the world can offer.”
His commitment to carve a path toward a brighter future for himself is a powerful characteristic seen in every student at Laredo College. Estrada’s pride in his education was immediately evident by his work during class and as he took his first step onto the graduation stage and walked forward to accept his certificate.
Whether it’s finding a new career path, meeting new people or building on exciting new opportunities, the first step can change lives. Sometimes it’s good for you to find something new and try to improve yourself, Estrada said. With his heart and mind now set on continuing his education, his new goal is to complete the LC Emergency Medical Technician Program before moving toward a career as a firefighter.
Now, with his certificate in hand, he encourages others to take the step toward attaining their GED and begin their journey toward a brighter future. Through flexible course schedules, online course availability and attentive faculty and staff, Estrada and other LC students have what they need to juggle personal and academic responsibilities.
“I’d recommend for whoever wants to get their GED certificate to come here and ask for whatever they need. They will help you every step of the way,” Estrada said.
He credited Laredo College faculty and staff for their continued support during and after completing the program. Needing to balance both a full-time job and continuing his education was not always easy, but Estrada thanked his instructors for taking time to reach out on days he missed class due to work and for going above and beyond for their students. Their diligence not only proved that they cared for Estrada’s success, but that he also had a support system at LC.
Upon completion of the Laredo College GED Program, Estrada wasted no time in signing up for classes and planning his return to LC classrooms in the coming semesters. Laredo College is proud to be a part of his growth and will continue supporting him and all its students throughout their lives.
