Sharon Parks
A friend is one that is always accepting and encouraging regardless of how much time has passed. For thirty years Guilford Technical Community College has consistently demonstrated this concept. The Adult High School Program is where it all started and even though I was a single mother I never felt judged or unworthy. Many times throughout my life I found myself in pursuit of knowledge. Whether is was a class to enhance parenting skills, grant writing and administrative courses that helped me to found a non-profit organization, or attaining activities coordinator certification to improve my job performance, my old friend was always there for me. Presently, my comrade is assisting me in my greatest challenge yet, coping with a debilitating neuromuscular disease. Forced to embrace a totally new way of life I went seeking the comfort of my old pal. Now I am working to obtain an Associate in Arts and will eventually transfer to a university in pursuit of a degree in Social Work. This chapter will be bittersweet but I will carry the knowledge gained from my friendship with great confidence knowing that it has established the foundation for my future endeavors in helping others.