By Karen Edmonds

Pine River Community Learning Center

So, you dropped out of high school. Whether it was two months or 20 years ago, you're sure you've sealed your fate. You're plagued by "if onlys." If only you had graduated, you'd have a better career. If only you had gotten your diploma, you could have gone to college. If only you had finished that senior year, you could have been the star quarterback.

Oops, back to reality.

The truth is, if you dropped out of high school, earning your GED (the equivalent of a high school diploma) can put you on whatever path to success you would like to travel. Would you like to make more money, but feel dogged by the "high school dropout" stigma? Research shows that those with a GED earn an average of $385,000 more over a lifetime than those without a GED. Many jobs require a GED or high school diploma, so earning a GED could open the door to a world of jobs currently inaccessible. Some employers ask an employee to earn a GED before being considered for a promotion or raise.

A GED diploma can also be a stepping stone to any college you would like to attend. Many colleges require at least a GED for admission; others ask the student with a GED to prove his or her ability to handle rigorous coursework by successfully completing classes at a community college before acceptance. You can soar as high educationally as you are willing to fly with your GED in hand.

The GED is a great option for home-schooled students, as well. It offers extra validation that courses covered at the high school level meet the proficiency requirements of the public education system, and can make it easier to get into college.

Isn't it time to chase away those "if onlys" and replace them with "why not today?"

Teachers at Pine River Community Learning Center (PRCLC), with locations in Ignacio and Bayfield, are anxious to help you earn your GED. Call PRCLC at 563-0681 (Ignacio) or 884-7765 (Bayfield) for more information about the GED or other programs offered at the center.