[Weekly Inspiration] Stories of Persevering for a Diploma

On a summer day this past June 2018, a special graduation ceremony was held for 12 special young people at the Oakland Museum of California. While any graduation ceremony is exciting, this one was a little different – all of the students in this class had previously dropped out of high school and were officially celebrating completing their diploma.

Through a school called Civicorps Corpsmember Academy in Oakland, California, the students were able to earn their diploma and gain valuable job skills. Civicorps Corpsmember Academy prepares returning students for the work force by helping them finish their diploma, complete job training, and explore internships and professional pathways, all during the 14-month program. The program is for students between the ages of 18-26, many of which are homeless, have been involved in the criminal justice system, or are young parents working to support their family.

 “I never thought I’d see the day; I'm not gonna lie,” said Antoine Marigny on graduation day. "It's an unbelievable feeling. I never thought I could do it."

Read the full inspiring story & listen to the interview here.

Life doesn’t always go according to plan, but that doesn’t mean we should ever stop trying to reach our full potential or give up on our goals. These students are a testament to the notion that reaching your goal is something that can be done through hard work and dedication, no matter the obstacle.

How do you stay motivated through life’s twists and turns? How do these experiences shape your classroom? Let the challenges of life help you grow and motivate you to stay focused on your goals!