MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — Standing on stage at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center, Ashley Robbins took a deep breath. Before her sat fellow graduates in identical green gowns, each with their own story of perseverance. But for Robbins, the journey was not just about earning a diploma—it was about transforming her life.
“I send my immense gratitude to all of you for contributing to my accomplishment today,” Robbins said, thanking her family, Berkeley County School District’s (BCSD) Adult and Community Education staff, and even her new coworkers.
Robbins, 24, grew up in Goose Creek and attended BCSD schools, but life took unexpected turns. Struggles in high school led her to drop out, and in her late teens, she found herself in a cycle of challenges. When she became pregnant with her son at 19, she knew something had to change.
Determined to earn her GED, Robbins tried multiple programs, including GED.com and Job Corps. She also briefly enrolled in BCSD’s Adult Education program in 2020 but had to leave due to scheduling conflicts. Years later, after giving birth to her daughter, she returned, knowing BCSD was the right fit.
“It’s so welcoming,” she said. “All the teachers are so helpful, and they deeply care about the students.”
Focusing on one subject at a time, Robbins took four tests over several months, saving math—her toughest challenge—for last. She passed with flying colors, earning her GED and marking the start of a new chapter.
But her journey didn’t end there. While working toward her diploma, Robbins was encouraged by BCSD’s career and college navigator, Angela Simmons, to apply for a position in the district’s Child Nutrition Services. In January, she joined Cane Bay Middle’s cafeteria team and quickly found her stride.
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“I love it,” Robbins said. “I’m always learning something new, and the recipes constantly change, so we’re never really too quiet; there’s always something to do,” she said. “I’m in constant go-mode.”
Robbins’ story resonated so deeply that she was invited to be the featured speaker at the Adult Education graduation ceremony in May. Nervous but determined, she took the stage and shared the lessons she learned:
“Always put faith over fear—especially when you’re scared. And do it now. Time and effort are things we can’t get back.”
As she closed her speech, she flashed a smile and added one final message to the audience:
“And, Mama—I did it!”
Robbins hopes her story inspires others to take that leap, no matter how daunting the journey may seem.
“Do it scared. That’s what I did.”
Learn more about BCSD’s Adult and Community Education program here.
The original story first appeared on the Berkeley County School District’s website.
