Our Stories

How did you decide to join LCN?
I asked the social worker at my house for help reading.

Were there challenges you had to overcome to get started?
It was hard to get started, I didn’t want to continue. With my tutor Dave, it’s better. He watches out for me.

What about working with your tutor has helped you succeed?
I got to know Dave, he’s somebody to talk to when you have problems.

What words would you use to describe what you’ve accomplished?
I can read 4- and 5- letter words now. Reading improves my head. I can read the words on the bus and on TV now.

Do you feel differently about yourself since you’ve begun working with your LCN tutor? If yes, in what way?
I feel a little bit better about myself.

Were there any unexpected benefits that came as a result of your participation in the tutoring program that surprised you?
I didn’t expect to hang in there that long.

What advice would you give other students who are starting to learn at LCN?
If you had a hard time reading, stick with it.

How would you describe yourself? Is there a name you would prefer we use when we share your story?
I’ve gone from being at a 1 to a 5 now.

How did you decide to join LCN?
I called the library and they directed me to LCN. I wanted to go to college and I wanted to learn for my daughter’s sake. My tutor Dave and I have been working together for over a year now.

Were there challenges you had to overcome to get started?
It was easy and it’s flexible which helps.

What about working with your tutor has helped you succeed?
Working with Dave gave me the confidence to apply for college. He also gives me personal advice and financial guidance.

What words would you use to describe what you’ve accomplished?
I’ve accomplished a lot in a year. I applied and got into college and am doing very well. I’ve been promoted at work and I’ve paid off credit cards. All while raising my 5-year old daughter.

Do you feel differently about yourself since you’ve begun working with your LCN tutor? If yes, in what way?
I’m more confident in myself and speak up more. I now want to be a nurse and know that I can do it.

Were there any unexpected benefits that came as a result of your participation in the tutoring program that surprised you?
I got help applying for college, and I now have a lot of support in school, and better finances.

What advice would you give other students who are starting to learn at LCN?
Show up, be determined to do it. Be disciplined. Ask LCN – they can give you advice and information.

How would you describe yourself? Is there a name you would prefer we use when we share your story?
My name is Ty and I have a 5-year old daughter. I work full-time at Walgreen’s and I’m taking 2 college courses at Montgomery County Community College. I’m studying to be a nurse.

Eileen’s Comments:
Tyrika has been with us since 2021 and is a wonderful student. Her positivity and confidence shine through as she continues to reach her goals. Her love for her daughter drives her to be the best. She is a very hard and diligent worker and she is a great role model for her daughter and others.

How did you decide to join LCN?
I joined LCN about 5 years ago and I’ve had 3 tutors in that time. I had taken English classes with LCN and wanted to get my GED so I could get my certification in baking. I would like to open my own bakery.

Were there challenges you had to overcome to get started?
No, there were no challenges.

What about working with Dave has helped you succeed?
I’ve been working with Dave for about 1 year now. He’s an amazing person. He explains things really well and he has a lot of passion. He has a big passion for math.

What words would you use to describe what you’ve accomplished?
I feel proud of all that I’ve accomplished and for sticking with it.

What advice would you give other students who are starting to learn at LCN?
LCN is excellent and they can help you with what you want to learn.

How would you describe yourself? Is there a name you would prefer we use when we share your story?
I work for a local supermarket at the service desk. My favorite thing to do is spend time with my family.

Eileen’s comments:
Violeta has big goals and will definitely accomplish them. She knows what she wants and quietly progresses towards her achievements. She and Dave have a great relationship and he has helped move her along to her goal of passing her GED. She is very sweet, determined, and dedicated to her family.