An Opportunity Well Taken
How a new environment, and CTE courses, turned a student on a “downhill track” into an optimistic future
“I was at my lowest and when I came here, I just saw a whole new shot at life.” Ashley says as she reflects on what brought her to Commonwealth.
Having experienced the challenges of attending multiple high schools and feeling like she was on a downward trajectory academically; Ashley saw Commonwealth as a big opportunity. “I was on a downhill track. I heard it was all at your own pace, and was just an opportunity to try and at least see. It was an opportunity well taken,” she recalls.
Shortly after enrolling, Ashley discovered that the personalized attention from teachers and the manageable schedule allowed her to thrive academically. “It’s easier to maintain school and jobs without it being overbearing, and since there’s not as many students, you’re able to have that one-on-one with teachers. That’s the best part,” Ashley explains.
At Commonwealth, Ashley not only found an environment that fostered her academic growth but also a path to pursue her passions. Taking a chance on the Career and Technical Education (CTE) course to become a certified CNA, Ashley rediscovered her calling to help others. “I’ve always wanted to do something to help others. I started taking the course and was like I actually find this interesting. I actually see moving on with this.”
Inspired by her mother’s resilience, her grandmother’s support, and her brother’s journey with autism, Ashley is determined to make a positive impact. Now a graduate, Ashley’s sights are set on a career in nursing where she can nurture children and contribute to a brighter tomorrow. Ashley shares, “I always loved working with kids. I see kids as the root of everything because the way you treat them from being a baby – to teenagers – to young adults determines how they’ll be as grown people.”
Ashley gets to showcase her commitment to working with youth by serving as a student ambassador, providing tours during orientation for newly enrolled students. Her engagement with new students highlights her commitment to paying it forward and guiding others toward success. She acknowledges the school’s role in providing support and opportunities for students, emphasizing the importance of seizing these opportunities.
While on tours, she often reminds incoming students that, “It’s all about the effort that you put into it. You make your own path; you make your own future, and the school really pushes you forward towards that because it gives you the opportunities to be able to do that.”
Ashley’s story is proof of the impact of personalized support and the potential for success when given the opportunity to thrive. As Ashley prepares for a summer bridge program at Central Piedmont Community College and a job opportunity with Atrium Health, she hopes she will continue on her path to make a lasting difference in the lives of others and achieve her dreams of becoming a compassionate and dedicated pediatric nurse.
