Perseverance key to GED recipient’s success

The third time has proven to be the charm for Meikel Sharp. Her first try at passing the GED was at the age of 18, second at age 24, and now at age 31, she completed her goal.  She admits she was mandated to complete her GED by the judge and was not originally too happy about the mandate.  Trouble with meth got in the way of her first two attempts but Meikel conquered it and has been clean for over six years. She states, “This time I decided to make it my goal [to finish].  If I couldn’t finish it, how am I going to tell my kids they need to finish school? I’ve finished my GED and am becoming the mother I should be.  I lost my kids for a time and am now getting them back.”  

Sharp is the mother of five children: Arizona (13), Raven (10), twins Mysty and Marissa (7), and Vincent (3).  She knows her older children understand that she finished and are proud of their mom.  The younger kids notice that she has been going to school like them. Her children and other family members plan to be at the GED graduation to see her walk across the stage.  

It took five months for Meikel to complete the GED. She said math was hardest for her and the essay, the easiest.  Her favorite part of the training was the individualized internet program called SkillsTutor. Crediting Carole Taft, Linda Ostin, Monica Conley, and Jerri Ray, all instructors in the Adult Basic Education program, with helping her to complete her GED, she states, “I would recommend the ABE program!  They give you all the information you need for the actual test.  If you haven’t been in school for a while, it is good to attend and brush up on those skills. You are never too old. A lot of young kids say it is too difficult [to finish a GED] – It’s really not that hard.”  Meikel plans to continue her education and to attend the ISU College of Technology this fall in the Marketing and Management Occupations program.  Her ultimate goal is to someday own her own business.

Sharp will participate in the ISU GED graduation ceremony to be held Friday, June 1, at 7 p.m. at the Stephens Performing Arts Center on the ISU Campus.  Over 200 people have earned their GED in Southeast Idaho this past year including many from Bannock County and surrounding communities.  The public is invited to attend.  

If you have questions about the GED graduation or GED services, call 282-2468.