Precious Armstrong

Precious Armstrong first enrolled at Emerson Community Adult School in 2015. At the time, she was attending community college and pursuing her goal of becoming a nurse, but she had not yet earned her high school diploma or GED. She later learned that advancing in her nursing career would require completing that important milestone.
Returning to high school as an adult was not easy. Precious was working, raising children, and managing significant responsibilities. She admitted feeling discouraged and embarrassed, but Ms. Gallardo, known to her as “Ms. G,” helped change the direction of her journey.
Although their relationship began over the phone, Ms. G became a steady source of encouragement and accountability. She called, followed up, explained options, and reminded Precious that her goal was still within reach. She also helped Precious understand that some of her college coursework could apply toward her diploma, giving her a clearer path forward.
Precious credits Ms. G’s support as one of the main reasons she did not give up. What began as academic guidance became a meaningful teacher-student relationship built on trust, persistence, and belief.
Today, Precious is an LVN and is preparing to graduate from Emerson Community Adult School. Her next goal is to become an RN, continue her education, earn a master’s degree, and become a nurse practitioner. She plans to attend American University of Health Sciences in Signal Hill and continue serving others through nursing.
Her achievement is especially meaningful because she continued forward while working, studying, and caring for two young cousins, ages two and four, whom she helped bring out of foster care. Her journey has required faith, discipline, and perseverance.
Precious came to Emerson seeking a diploma. She leaves with more than a credential. She leaves with confidence, direction, and the lasting impact of an educator who saw her potential and refused to let her give up.
Her message to other students is clear: stay focused, never give up, and do not allow age or obstacles to determine your future.
Precious closes this chapter with gratitude for the educator who helped her finish. Through Ms. Gallardo’s steady support and Precious’s determination, this graduation becomes more than a personal achievement. It becomes a reminder of what Adult Education does best: it gives students another chance, another pathway, and another reason to believe their goals are still possible.

 

by Leo Lynch

Academic Advisor