Chapter 1: A Journey of Resilience

This narrative was inspired by Julia A. Keirns, who encouraged us to share our graduation stories, and Adrienne Beaumont, who documented her daughter Keeley's graduation.

I never experienced a graduation ceremony during high school. Due to needing summer school, I missed the chance to walk across the stage. Similarly, I didn't feel compelled to attend the ceremony for my associate's degree in college; completing the coursework was what truly mattered to me.

In contrast, my military graduation ceremonies—from boot camp to being honored as an NCO school graduate—held greater significance.

My daughter, Briana, has taken a different path. After dropping out of high school while living in Kansas with her mother, she eventually moved in with me. She took on several odd jobs, including working at a gas station convenience store. Not the most thrilling job, I know.

One day, Briana decided she wanted to elevate her life. She earned her GED, and I had never witnessed her more thrilled. This was her first major step toward achieving both her associate's and bachelor's degrees. Remarkably, she has two degrees now, while I only have one and I’m 65!

Briana gradually accumulated college credits at Southern New Hampshire University, taking one or two classes at a time. In 2019, she proudly earned her associate's degree in criminal justice. On November 6, 2021, she walked across the stage at SNHU Arena in Manchester, New Hampshire, to receive her bachelor's degree in communications.

Throughout her academic journey, she continued to work part-time at the gas station. Eventually, she transitioned to a new job that has not only enriched her professional skills but also improved her financial situation.

Briana is committed to building a fulfilling career and seems genuinely happy—perhaps working a little too hard, in my opinion. However, she has aspirations, and I won’t hinder her pursuit.

Additionally, she has ventured into entrepreneurship, crafting and selling a variety of products on Etsy. As a landscape photographer, I take pride in my work, but her creativity truly shines.

Briana also has grand ambitions. She envisions owning a million-dollar beach house in Maine. While I have my reservations, especially considering the effects of climate change, it's her aspiration, and I fully support her.

I believe she will make a significant impact in her community. I’m proud to have instilled in her the importance of generosity, though she has always been naturally giving.

Thanks for taking the time to read this.

In the video "From High School Dropout to College Graduate," we explore the inspiring journey of individuals overcoming challenges to achieve academic success.

The second video titled "How I Entered University As A High School Dropout" narrates personal experiences that led to higher education, highlighting resilience and determination.