ABE III students got a head start on college thanks to a partnership between TRA and North Shore Community College.

Funded in part by a North Shore Workforce Investment Board grant, the program enabled students to earn NSCC college credits beginning with a one-credit preparatory class entitled “Pathways to College.” The course presented aspects of the college experience including taking notes, study methods and time management while giving them exposure to college level coursework.

Following that, the students completed a 3-credit Basic Communication course designed to help them complete the essay part of the GED test, as well as compose college essays. NSCC Instructor Paul Benson taught the classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at TRA''s Salem site.

“TRA is a very positive, supportive environment,” he said, noting that he enjoyed working with students of difference ages and experiences.

“My experience in basic writing was great with Paul,” said student Nick Kuian. “I learned how to write better and now have more confidence in my writing. He also taught us how not to be afraid, to just dig in right away.”