In 2017, Pency Engmawii graduated from The Excel Center®, Goodwill’s tuition-free high school for adults, with a Core 40 diploma. Her drive and persistence on her academic journey were recognized in 2018 with Goodwill’s Education Achievement Award.

“I did not think this would be possible,” said Pency.

Originally, Pency was raised in a small village in Myanmar, Burma, with her 11 siblings. In her native country, education was attached to many fees and expenses, making it difficult to earn without wealth. Burmese society was also restrictive, not allowing for many freedoms and privileges. To find better opportunities, her family sent her to Malaysia as a refugee. She stayed there, away from her family and home, until being admitted into the United States in 2011.

After entering the U.S., Pency learned of The Excel Center through her church and enrolled in classes.

“Pency’s journey has been so impressive because of the geographic distance she’s had to take to get to The Excel Center,” said Jessamon Jones, her former English teacher and current TalentSource™ Workbased Learning Manager. “She’s had barriers I can’t even imagine, and she was by herself when she was going through those barriers.”

English was not Pency’s native language and became a barrier as she attended classes and took required exams. To support herself, she also worked full-time while attending The Excel Center. Much of her free time was dedicated to homework, as she often requested supplemental assignments to practice English. Some nights, she could only sleep for three hours.

At The Excel Center, Pency was provided with the support she needed to overcome her barriers and learn.

“The staff was always available when I needed them,” said Pency. “They put the students first.”

Pency’s dedication to learning paid off in a Core 40 diploma. However, her hard work not only affected her education but her community as well. Pency often returned to her local Excel Center to assist with class and tutor students in English. Her experiences as a refugee and former student acted as an inspiration to others seeking an education.

“Because of the community at The Excel Center, I learned how important it is to help others,” said Pency. “I am so grateful for the community that supported me.” 

After graduating from The Excel Center, Pency furthered her education by earning her associate degree in business administration from Ivy Tech and enrolling at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance.

“I have the opportunity to achieve my dream of completing my degree at a university,” Pency said. “Thank you for everything.”