My name is Amanda Sequeira and I recently earned my High School Equivalency Credential through Training Resources of America’s (TRA) Young Parents Program (YPP).

Seven years ago my life was a mess and I was just becoming an adult. I was 17 and completely lost in the beginning of my junior year of high school. I wanted nothing to do with school. My mindset was “work, work, work” so I dropped out of New Bedford High School.

When I turned 19 years old, I decided to attend night school. I needed a lot of credits to graduate. I had to pay for the courses and it cost me quite a bit of money to do that. I stuck it out for a while and then dropped out again. I went back to work because I really needed the money.

I went back to school one more time. Then at 21 years old, I got pregnant with my Angelina and dropped out of high school courses again.

In May of 2017, I met the best teacher anyone could ever imagine having! Her name is Bethaney Price [Instructor/ Case Manager for the TRA-New Bedford YPP]. She pushed me and helped me with my goals and plans. I am so proud to finally say after all the times I gave up, I have finally closed that chapter in my book of life. I officially have my High School Equivalency Credential. I don’t care about all the “Negative Nellie’s” who thought I would fail again. I never gave up and that is the example I want to set for my child. I want to instill hope, faith, determination and perseverance in her, so that no matter what challenges she faces… Never give up!
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Congratulations Amanda! You are not only a wonderful role model for your daughter, but for other young parents as well! We at TRA are very proud of you!