In 2010, Marian had tried to get her GED. She experienced test anxiety so bad that it stopped her from being able to complete the exam. Ten years later, she thought about trying again.
It was 2020 and Marian was spending a lot of time at home with her family. She looked up GED services in Portland and learned about the library’s free resources. Through the library’s GED program, she was able to:
- Join drop-in GED sessions and tutoring
- Get recommended study materials
- Receive vouchers for practice tests and final tests
These no-cost options can help you learn and make getting your GED easier.
Once she signed up, Marian was introduced to the adult learning team and scheduled virtual lessons with tutoring volunteers. To get ready for the GED exam, she had two tutors each provide hour-long lessons twice a week. First, they helped Marian practice getting comfortable in the testing environment. Then, her tutors provided tips like tackling the fun and easy questions before moving on to the more challenging ones. In May 2024 she took the exam and received her GED.
“What truly made a difference was having people in my corner who continued to motivate me and believe in me. While the studying process takes time, patience, and mental toughness it’s worth it. And, you meet some amazing people!” says Marian.
She continues to stay in touch with one of her tutors who has become a friend. Since getting her GED, Marian has enrolled in classes for medical assistance at a private college and looks forward to entering a healthcare career in the near future.
Whether you have tried to get your GED in the past or you are just starting to look into the possibility of getting yours, Multnomah County Library has resources that can help you, no matter when you are ready.
Call or text 503.577.9984 or email mcl.adult.literacy@multcolib.org to get more information about the free GED resources at the library.