Gaspar Sánchez

I was originally born in Mexico, and I started taking English as a Second Language classes at Truman College in 2004—18 years ago. Later, I enrolled in classes to prepare for my high school diploma.

My journey to continue my education has been long and winding. I’ve worked multiple jobs, and I’ve raised kids. I’ve taken breaks and restarted again. But City Colleges has always been here to support me—to help me accomplish my goal.

We each have our own American Dream—mine was to earn my high school diploma to be able to start changing my life and the lives of the ones I love. I knew that achieving this goal would lead to the possibility of better opportunities and the ability to provide a better life for my family.

This year, I did it. I passed the GED test. I took part in City Colleges’ high school equivalency ceremony, and I was so proud to celebrate with my teachers, classmates, friends, and family.

Now, my goal is to continue improving my English skills and earn a degree in construction management from City Colleges. One of the great parts of the Adult Education program here is they have scholarships to help me achieve that dream. They offer the support I need to keep going.

So, no matter your age, your gender, where you’re from, si hablas ingles o español, you can continue your education. My story is proof of that. I want to set an example for my kids—and for my community—that ‘if I can do it, you can, too.’

—Gaspar Sánchez Segundo, Truman College High School Equivalency Completer, Class of 2022