HAMLET — Richmond Community College student Madison Gentry of Laurinburg has been accepted into the C-STEP co-admission program with the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Madison never felt this would be possible four years ago when she dropped out of high school due to overwhelming family responsibilities.
During her sophomore year, she transferred to a new high school. She also cared for her ailing grandmother and took on most of the household responsibilities for her parents, small business owners who worked long hours during the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.
“I felt overworked, overwhelmed and burned out. My exhaustion consequently led to me struggling academically,” Madison said.
Madison eventually made the decision to drop out of high school.
“That summer, my parents suggested I earn my high school diploma through RichmondCC’s Adult Education Program. This would let me finish my remaining courses at my own pace, while continuing to help with the household responsibilities and my grandmother,” she said.