The UNM High School Equivalency Program held its second annual summer GED program. HEP, funded by the U.S. Department of Migrant Education, offers individuals with migrant or seasonal agricultural worker backgrounds the opportunity to earn a General Educational Development certificate through intensive preparatory instruction and support services.
“HEP changes the lives of many adult students by providing them with an opportunity to complete a high school degree and to begin college and university classes,” UNM Vice President for Student Affairs Eliseo “Cheo” Torres said.
Yesenia Martinez of Socorro said, “HEP has opened doors for me that I didn’t even know existed. This program has given me a sense of confidence and the ambition to succeed.” Martinez plans to study psychology and business administration at UNM this fall.
While most participants come from Albuquerque and Hatch, where UNM HEP works with GED programs run by Catholic Charities of Central New Mexico and Doña Ana Community College during the fall and spring, this summer’s students have come from as far away as Nevada and Oklahoma. The summer participants live and study on UNM’s Albuquerque campus.
“Being far away from home and out of your comfort zone can be really challenging sometimes, but working with a staff that is truly devoted to helping us makes it easier,” said Ana Maria Portillo of Las Cruces.
Michael Mills of Rincon said HEP helped him overcome self-doubt he had about continuing his education. Mills, who previously worked harvesting chilé and onions, now hopes to study theatre at UNM.
In addition to classes covering the five subjects on the GED test – writing, reading, social studies, math and science – the participants, ages 18-36, attended daily tutoring sessions, local cultural events, community service activities and life skills workshops. The workshops, with topics such as financial aid, résumé writing and money management, prepare students to enter college and the work force.
Story by Jessica Quade