Finding one's way in life is linked closely with education. A person who cannot read, write and do mathematics will always be at the mercy of the people who can. We need to learn the basics so that we can communicate, take care of ourselves and be assured of not being cheated and deceived. The key is getting a good education. For the adult person who needs to improve himself this means reaching out to those who can help. The schools in this area can help. There are resources available to assist those who want to improve themselves. Local public and private schools are willing to assist those who cannot read, write or do math. The institutions of higher education and the local schools are willing to assist those who have this special need.

This means a person needs to test the waters. You need to get into an Adult Basic Education class. Others need to get into an "English as a Second Language" class. Of course, there are the GED classes for those who would like to complete their education and get the equivalent of a high school diploma. After a person decides to get started and actually begins what should that person do?

First, the person pursuing an education should keep at it. Education is a matter of "life-long learning." It doesn't end when you graduate from high school, college or graduate school. It continues on into the future. We need to determine that we are going to keep learning, keep improving and keep growing intellectually, socially and spiritually. We need to have this determination that will keep us going.

Then we need to do our homework. Keep current with your studies. Don't wait until the last minute to study and prepare for tests or to do assignments. Keep up with your assignments and homework. You'll be glad that you did. It will show in your grades. Those who are not in classes should also "do their homework," learning whatever they need to learn to improve themselves.

Third, you need to listen in class and take notes. Many people don't really learn until graduate school that the secret of success in education is listening and taking notes. It makes clear what you need to learn and strengthens your thinking processes as you study. Again, if you are not in a class you should listen to others, share your ideas and thoughts in civil and simple ways with your friends and family members. Writing is an important part of communicating and sharing. This is why we should practicing keeping a personal and professional journal, recording our ideas, thoughts and observations. Don't think that you will remember good ideas. Write them in your journal, explain and express your ideas. A journal is an intellectual bank from which you can harvest many good things in the future.

As you determine that you are going to continue learning and improving, you need to become a source of encouragement and example for others. Take time to show the way to others. You'll be glad that you did. You'll feel better about yourself and you will have a friend for life when you encourage those around you to keep learning and studying.

Those of us who work and teach in institutions of higher education, such as Wiley, TSTC, Panola and East Texas Baptist University, would like to encourage you to continue your education. You can learn and grow and become a more educated and intelligent person through studying with others and improving yourself. We are here to assist you in providing a quality education to those who want to learn and grow. We want to assist you in finding your way to a better and more productive life.

I hope that you will determine to improve yourself and to encourage those around you in your world and in your words. If you have comments or observations on what we have to celebrate education here in East Texas, I would like to hear from you and will appreciate you sharing your thoughts and ideas with me. You may contact me by email at jhopkins@etbu.edu or drjerryhopkins@yahoo.com. I can also be reached by "snail mail" at Dr. Jerry Hopkins, East Texas Baptist University, 1209 North Grove Street, Marshall, TX 75670, or by phone at 903-923-2087.