GNTC’s Adult Education program changes graduate’s outlook
A Sylvania woman’s outlook on education changed after she received her High School Equivalency at Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC).
Elizabeth Foldes said she and her family moved frequently during her childhood because her father’s job setting up publishing equipment required relocating every two years throughout Georgia. She now lives in Sylvania.
After her family moved to Rome and the pandemic struck, doctors and high school advisers suggested that she consider leaving public high school and begin homeschooling, Foldes said.
“I was having an extremely difficult time focusing on anything to do with school after my mom passed away,” Foldes said. “I decided to get my High School Equivalency (HSE) because I knew that my struggle was not going to hold me back from furthering my education and pursuing a career.”
She earned her HSE diploma through GNTC’s Adult Education program in spring 2024 and attended classes at the Floyd County Campus in Rome. She said the program changed her outlook on school, and the environment helped her focus.
“My wonderful teachers in the Adult Education program helped me tremendously with learning, providing test-taking tips to help me through testing anxiety and supported me through every single struggle and victory I had while with them,” Foldes explained.
Courtney Huber, Adult Basic Education instructor, said she was impressed with the “remarkable dedication and perseverance” Foldes displayed and the transformation she experienced.
“When she first joined my class, Elizabeth was anxious and emotional,” Huber said. “She battled self-esteem issues for a while until she connected with two non-traditional students in their late 70s and another young lady who had difficulties with reading and speech. They quickly became fast friends, and through helping others, Elizabeth’s confidence grew.”
Foldes has a gift for explaining things in a way that others can understand and for motivating them not to give up, Hubert said, adding that Foldes was quiet, polite and genuinely entertaining with a wonderful sense of humor. She was always offering a hug or words of encouragement to anyone in need, which made her a true delight to have in class.
Huber said she recalls seeing Foldes’ smile return as her confidence blossomed.
“Watching her embrace her abilities and believe in herself again was truly inspiring. Her growth wasn’t just academic; it was a powerful personal journey,” Huber said. “She didn’t simply aim to pass—she wanted to fully understand every concept, ensuring she was well-prepared for college and life.”
Foldes said she is in her first semester at East Georgia State College in Statesboro. Upon completing her core classes, she plans to transfer to Georgia Southern University, also in Statesboro.
“I am considering becoming a veterinary technician or majoring in creative writing,” she said. “I thoroughly enjoy writing, and I love animal science, as well as taking care of dogs and cats, but I will also work with exotic pets, such as spiders, snakes and lizards.”
During her HSE courses, she focused mainly on math, but she also studied English, science and history. She said she also learned customer service, which she really enjoyed.
“Elizabeth has maintained strong friendships with many Adult Education students and continues to be a source of joy and encouragement to others,” Huber said. “She is a remarkable young woman who will no doubt continue to impact those around her with her kindness, strength and determination.”
Georgia Northwestern Technical College provides quality workforce education to the citizens of northwest Georgia. Students have the opportunity to earn an associate degree, diploma or a certificate in aviation, business, health, industrial or public service career paths. This past year, 12,241 people benefited from GNTC’s credit and noncredit programs. GNTC has an annual credit enrollment of 8,031 students and an additional enrollment of 4,210 people through adult education, continuing education, business and industry training and Georgia Quick Start. GNTC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, as set forth in its student catalog, GNTC complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed or religion, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital status or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). Equity Coordinator, Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 and ADA Coordinator: Brittany Elrod.
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