New HCC GED graduates begin a life of opportunity

May 11, 2017


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Carrie Prutz never thought that a phrase she casually read would resonate as much as it did. It said, “If you want something different you have to do everything different." That was two years ago when the 35 year-year-old mother of four lived in a homeless shelter.

What a difference two years can make. On May 10, Carrie Prutz became a graduate of the Houston Community College (HCC) General Education Development (GED) program. “I got to the point where I needed my life to change completely. My kids deserved better. They deserved so much and I was going to give it to them,” said a beaming Carrie as she proudly wore her cap and gown.

Carrie, who now has a place of her own, shared her pride with 179 other students who participated in the 2017 GED Commencement Ceremony at HCC Central College. It was a milestone for Carrie, but not the end of her educational journey. “I am working on my advanced welding certificate and I now want to pursue an associates degree.”

“Congratulations,” proclaimed Eva Loredo, HCC Board of Trustees Chair. Loredo told the graduates,“I am so excited that you took the opportunity to get your GED. It tells your family that you are driven and ambitious. Obtaining this accomplishment gives you a second chance for the future.”

For graduate Tacara Benson, the chance came two decades after she left school. “I have waited 20 years,” Tacara said.  “I had to drop out of school and do waitressing. It was either survive or go to school.”

At the time, Tacara felt she had no choice. “I ended up raising myself and had to get a job to provide for me. Now I have a full life ahead of me,” said Tacara who plans to attend HCC in the summer to obtain a certificate in Real Estate.

Many other GED graduates also plan to pursue educational opportunities. At the ceremony the HCC Foundation awarded $1,000 scholarships to three graduates to help them continue their education.

 

 

2017 GED Commencement Ceremony


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