Meet Santiago:
Born and raised in the Houston area, Santiago took the time to share his experience with West Houston Assistance Ministries and his journey that led him to obtaining his GED. As an accountant at MemberSource Credit Union, Santiago never imagined he’d land the role almost five years ago. He attributes much of his success to chance and luck, yet it is his dedication to completing his high school education that truly drives him forward.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges, reshaping Santiago's life in ways he never anticipated. The most significant of these was the heartbreaking loss of his father during the height of the pandemic. Before his passing, Santiago's father had encouraged him to pursue further education, even suggesting he seek out trade school opportunities. This encouragement, coupled with the desire to honor his father's memory, became Santiago’s driving force to continue his educational journey.
“Literacy is important to me because everyone has some type of literacy in their daily life, and all jobs require some form of education,”
Santiago reflects. He knows all too well the anxiety of facing job interviews, especially when the conversation turns to education.
“The process of going through a job interview and getting to that point where they ask about your education has been an experience that is all too familiar.”
Santiago’s experience has fueled his motivation for encouraging others to take chances and keep moving forward with their educational journey. He urges those in similar positions to seek help and take advantage of the support available through educational programs.
"The pace of the courses is just right, and they truly help you maintain that balance between work and life,"
Santiago attributes much of his success to the GED program and the flexibility of his classes at West Houston Assistance Ministries. The structure allows him to maintain a good work/life balance and a lesson breakdown that works for him.
Santiago’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative role that literacy and education can play in shaping the path of an individual’s life. The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation continues to support learners like Santiago in their pursuit of knowledge and helping foster their educational futures.
To learn more about the STAR program and other community-based organizations like West Houston Assistance Ministries, please visit https://www.barbarabushhouston.org/star.