SOWELA Jennings Student Finds Calling Through Adult Education
LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA — SOWELA Technical Community College is celebrating Adult Education and Family Literacy Month in September by recognizing the achievements of adult learners who are building brighter futures through education and workforce training. SOWELA’s adult education program provides individuals with the literacy, language and academic skills needed to earn a high school equivalency diploma and prepare for in-demand careers.
One of those students is Louise Lopez, who rejoined SOWELA’s adult education program this summer at the College’s Morgan Smith site in Jennings and is preparing to take the HiSET exam later this fall.
“It’s been a really great experience, and I love my teacher,” Lopez said. “I have the resources that I need.”
A mother of two, Lopez attends class once a week while balancing work and family responsibilities. Through her experience at SOWELA, she has become an advocate for adult education in her community, encouraging friends and family members to pursue their own educational goals.
Like many adult learners, Lopez initially felt uncertain about returning to the classroom. Today, she encourages others to take the first step.
“It’s not as bad as you think,” Lopez said. “SOWELA was extremely informative. My teacher is very approachable. If you’re nervous, just take a leap because everyone is so helpful.”
Lopez credits the program with helping her gain confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. Earning her high school equivalency diploma is only the beginning of her educational journey. Her next goal is enrolling in SOWELA’s Sterile Processing program and launching a career in healthcare.
“My outlook has changed drastically,” Lopez said. “College seems much more feasible now and less intimidating.”
SOWELA encourages adult education students to continue their education beyond the high school equivalency diploma. Through short-term workforce certificates and associate degree programs, students can earn industry-recognized credentials that lead to high-demand careers, greater earning potential and long-term economic stability while helping meet the workforce needs of regional employers.
“Adult education opens doors to opportunities that many students once thought were out of reach,” said Dr. Geralyn Janice, Adult Education Program Manager. “Students like Louise demonstrate that it’s never too late to earn a diploma, pursue college and build a rewarding career.”
To further support adult learners, SOWELA offers several financial aid and scholarship opportunities, including the Adult Career Pathways Scholarship. The scholarship allows eligible students who have not yet earned a high school diploma or equivalency to enroll in college courses and HiSET preparation classes simultaneously, earning credit toward both goals.
Adult education classes are offered free of charge at all four SOWELA locations in Lake Charles, Jennings, Oakdale and Leesville, La. Registration is open year-round. For more information or to enroll, visit www.sowela.edu/adult-ed.