Michael is a Nurse Aide program graduate and was one of 3 student speakers who delivered their remarks at June’s Carlos Rosario School graduation ceremony. He said: “This is just the beginning for all of us graduates; we have a lot to do in the future, and education and persistence are the key.”

Good evening everyone. Congratulations students!

My name is Michael Kebede. I am originally from Ethiopia and I started classes at Carlos Rosario in 2016. I have taken computer and English classes, and I just finished the Nurse Aide Training class in preparation for my future dream.  I will be your doctor in the future.

During my time in the US, I learned that living here without speaking English makes life much harder. In my case, I did not have much confidence, but it wasn’t because that’s who I am. It was because I did not have the English skills to be more confident in this country.

I am thankful that when I was working, I had a great boss who understood the value of education and gave me a flexible schedule so I could go to school. This is why I came to Carlos Rosario School, my second home. Thanks to my amazing teachers, our school’s great academic programs, and leadership opportunities, I have developed my skills and knowledge. Now I am ready for the next step, to be in the medical field.

Look at me right now: I am in front of you speaking out loud in English and a certified nurse aide. This is just the beginning for all of us graduates; we have a lot to do in the future, and education and persistence are the key. I would like to quote Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr: “if you can’t fly, run. If you can’t run, walk.  If you can’t walk, crawl. But whatever you do, keep moving forward.” Thank you for listening to my story.

I would now like to introduce 1st Sgt. Hector Rivera who studied at the Carlos Rosario School more than 20 years ago. Today, he is a member of the United States Marine Corps, and he is here to share his story with us. Please help me welcome, 1st Sgt Rivera.