STATE CENTER ADULT EDUCATION CONSORTIUM

Yensi Fuentes
CNA Graduate / High School Diploma Student
Sanger Adult Education

My name is Yensi Fuentes, and my journey is built on sacrifice, courage, and determination. I grew up in Honduras, where I worked alongside my parents and completed my education, including a degree in finance. At 17, I made the difficult decision to come to the United States alone in search of better opportunities. The journey was long and challenging, and after being detained at the border, I was finally able to reunite with my family and begin building a new life.

When I arrived, I returned to school to continue my education, starting with ESL classes because I did not speak English. Balancing work, school, and language barriers was not easy, and I faced many setbacks along the way. Still, I kept going. I completed a CNA program despite the challenges and am currently finishing my high school diploma while continuing to improve my English skills.

My goal is to continue my education and one day open my own business. I am motivated by my family, my faith, and the desire to create a better future. Today, I share my story to inspire others because no matter how difficult the journey may be, you should never be afraid to go after your goals.

Wannida Saeli
High School Diploma & CNA Graduate
Fresno City College

I moved to the United States as a young student and truly started from zero. I did not speak any English and was placed in a Beginning level class that met only two days a week. I wanted to learn faster, so when I was not allowed to enroll in a higher level, I chose to stay and repeat the same class with different groups. For a full year, I reviewed the same lessons again and again until I could finally understand and speak basic English. That progress gave me hope.

At first, I almost gave up on my dreams. I had always wanted to become a nurse, but the language barrier made that dream feel impossible. As my English improved and I found support from classmates, my confidence returned. I enrolled in a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, earned my certification, and began working while continuing my education.

Today, I am studying at Fresno City College, completing prerequisites and working toward a nursing degree. Balancing work and school is not easy, but I stay motivated by remembering how far I have come. I want to serve as a Student Ambassador to encourage other adult learners who are starting over. I know progress can feel slow, but with consistency and determination, dreams are still possible.

Pedro Zavala
High School Diploma Graduate
Kings Canyon Adult School

My name is Pedro Zavala, and my journey is one of second chances, hope, and transformation . I grew up in a broken home and was exposed to gangs, drugs, and violence at a young age. As a teenager, I followed that path, which led me away from school and into years of addiction and poor decisions. My struggles continued into adulthood, leading to homelessness and eventually time in jail, where I reached one of the lowest points in my life.

While I was incarcerated, I realized I needed to change. I chose to seek help and entered a rehabilitation program, where I found faith, purpose, and a new direction. During that time, I also earned my high school diploma, which became a major turning point in my life and helped me believe that my story was not over.

Today, I am continuing my education in seminary college with the goal of becoming a pastor. I now serve my community through my work at a local church, helping others who are facing challenges similar to what I once experienced. My story is proof that it is never too late to change your life and create a better future.