Natish Thomas Earns High School Diploma, Advances Career and Education
Natish Thomas has reached a major educational milestone, as she completed the final
requirement for her high school diploma on December 8, 2023. Her achievement marks
the culmination of years of determination, resilience, and hard work.
Thomas began attending classes at the Arkansas State University–Newport (ASUN)–Jonesboro
Adult Education Center in late 2020, during the early and uncertain months of the
COVID-19 pandemic. Despite widespread disruptions and personal challenges brought
on by the pandemic, she remained committed to earning her diploma. She credits the
consistent encouragement and outreach from instructors and the entire staff at the
center for motivating her to return to class and continue progressing toward graduation.
While pursuing her diploma, Thomas simultaneously enrolled in the ADWORC Program through
ASUN–Jonesboro, where she earned multiple professional credentials. Among them were
the Bronze WorkKeys Certificate, OSHA 10 Certification, Forklift Certification, and
Basic Life Support (CPR) Certification. She also completed the Teknimedia Computer
Literacy Program and obtained IC3 Digital Literacy Certifications, further strengthening
her technical and workplace skills.
Her initiative and engaging personality helped her connect with Career Service Providers
at the ASUN–Jonesboro Adult Education Center. As a result, she was selected to participate
in the Workforce Work Experience Program, an initiative designed to promote strong
work habits and support individuals in securing full-time employment. During the program,
Thomas worked in the Adult Education Career Closet, where she applied her organizational
skills. Her responsibilities later expanded to include clerical duties.
After completing the Work Experience Program, Thomas applied for and was hired as
a part-time paraprofessional at the ASUN–Jonesboro Adult Education Center. She has
since advanced to a full-time position with ASUN and is now enrolled in college, pursuing
a Master of Business Administration degree.
Thomas’ journey reflects the power of perseverance and goal-setting. She encourages
others considering returning to school to stay focused and committed, emphasizing
that her success came from making her education a priority.
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