"If you have a dream, give it a chance to happen."

"If you have a dream, give it a chance to happen." - Richard Devos, from "Whatever it Takes"

This weekend, I went home to San Diego and took the CBEST. The CBEST is what allows me, a college graduate, to become a substitute teacher.  Taking the CBEST has been a goal of mine for a while, but before returning to school I was struggling with the financial commitment of $100.

Since I graduated in 2009 from San Diego State University, I dealt with a lot of obstacles. I was having trouble finding a job, began a commission-only based job which quickly fizzled, and ended up working in retail for a year.

When I was at school, though I was supporting myself financially with student loans and grants, I always felt hopeful. There were certain times I worried about paying bills, but I always saw a light at the end of the tunnel with graduation. As graduation approached, I began to feel kind of like someone getting closer and closer to the edge of the cliff. This feeling permeated my emotions and actions, and it prevented me from success in some ways.


Returning to college and going to SBCC was one of the best choices I ever made. Being around other people who work hard to achieve their goals is so important. Returning to college gave me the opportunity to get financial aid, and use that money toward buying a computer and other important financial goals. It gave me the ability to increase my skills, and find a job related to what I'm passionate about. But I think, most importantly for me, it gave me a place emotionally to feel good about taking risks like taking the CBEST. Taking the CBEST this weekend is a symbol of my ability to take a risk and achieve success, because guess what? I got my preliminary results in 2 of the 3 areas, and I have passed!


NOTE: If you are reading this and are wondering about how you can finance your education, I highly suggest you visit the SBCC Financial Aid page. The financial aid counselors work one-on-one with you to make sure that you fill out the forms you need and get everything properly submitted. If money is stopping you from going to school, don't let it- get help!