My name is Austin Herren. I came to Community First High School because I wanted to finish my education and build a better future for myself and my family. I knew earning my high school equivalency credential could open new doors for me, but I also knew I needed the right support to get there.
At Community First, I was able to work toward my HiSET with the support and encouragement I needed. In November 2020, I completed the official HiSET exam and earned a total score of 70. At that time, the passing total in Louisiana was 45. I also earned College and Career Readiness recognition in Social Studies, Reading, and Writing, and I received a score of 4 on my essay.Passing the HiSET meant a lot to me because it showed me that I could finish what I started and keep moving forward. One of my biggest goals was to be in a position where I could support my family and build a stable future.
After completing my education, I joined the United States Army. That was an important next step for me because it gave me the opportunity to serve, grow, and begin building a career.
If I could give advice to another student who is struggling with school, I would tell them not to give up on themselves. Your path may look different from someone else's, but that does not mean you cannot succeed. Keep working, accept the help that is available, and stay focused on the future you want.
Community First High School gave me another path forward, and earning my HiSET helped me take the next step toward the future I wanted.