When Sachin Mishra moved from Mumbai, India to the United States in 2017, he was looking for a better life for his family and an opportunity for growth.
A high school graduate in Mumbai, Mishra dreamed of continuing his education in America, but encountered obstacles with his transcripts, which were written in a foreign language.
Little did he know that the answer to his problems – and the learning facility that would jumpstart his path toward success – was across the street from the convenience store where he worked.
On his manager’s recommendation, Mishra enrolled in the Whittier Union Adult School’s high school equivalency (HSE) prep class in August 2018 to acquire the skills to pass all sections of the HiSET exam.
Upon receiving his HSE certificate, Mishra was encouraged by Adult School staff to take career training accounting classes. Balancing work, family and school, Mishra took advantage of several courses offered by the Adult School, mastering Microsoft Office Suite, accounting foundations, payroll and Quickbooks.
He completed the accounting program in July 2019.
“I am so impressed by the quality of education provided by Whittier Union Adult School,” Mishra said. “You can take as many classes as you want, you receive personal attention and it is very affordable.”
Equipped with an HSE certificate and newly-acquired accounting skills, Mishra found employment as a customer service agent at Los Angeles International Airport, helping travelers with boarding passes, check-in and luggage.
In January 2020, Mishra will pursue an associate’s degree at Rio Hondo College.
“I have learned that you have to take slow steps to achieve your goals,” Mishra said. “My goal is move beyond living paycheck-to-paycheck. Whittier Union Adult School has provided me more than an education. The teachers and counselors are so helpful, they guide every individual student toward the right path.”