Earning a Free Education

Written by: Jessica Behnham

More than a dozen full-time employees from the departments of housing, hospitality services and recreational sports at Texas Tech University are on their way to receiving GEDs.

The employees are participating in a program that was initiated by the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management in conjunction with Region 17 Education Service Center.

Employees attend free classes, which began Jan. 13, twice a week on campus to prepare them to take and pass the GED test.

Participants are given an assessment to determine their current level, and are then able to work at their own pace until they feel adequately prepared to take the GED test.

Instruction is provided by the Region 17 Education Center, and Student Affairs and Enrollment Management contribute funding and assistance those interested in participating in the program.

Dolores Gonzales, section coordinator with Hospitality Services, said the employees are not only committed to the program, but they also are excited about the progress they have made.

“They are very proud,” Gonzales said. “They say, ‘I’ve always wanted to get a chance to do this.’ You can tell by their work ethic and personality that they are happy and excited.

Gonzales said because of the interest in the program, the division plans to begin another session of classes in July. Those interested in learning about the program can contact Dolores Gonzales or call (806) 742-5033.