‘Make a clear vision of where you want to be:’ Recent HSDP Grad Finds Confidence to Pursue Dreams

Noah Marseille, a Roxbury native and budding musician who just graduated from the Notre Dame Education Center’s High School Diploma Program (HSDP), said he is immensely grateful that alternative education programs – like those found at Catholic Charities – exist. Through the support of the community and teachers he found at the Notre Dame Center, Noah has found confidence in himself and his ability to chase after his goals. Learn more in our Q&A with Noah below:

What first led you to enroll at the Notre Dame education Center?

I grew up in Roxbury and went to Cathedral High School, but my grades were not the best, and so I eventually decided to switch to Notre Dame. It was like a second chance for me – a chance to reset and refresh. I ended up completing my junior and senior year at Notre Dame in a smaller class, and it was a great decision for me.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the Notre Dame Center and what was most impactful to you?

I really enjoyed how hands on the classes were. We had a small in-person class – there were only about ten of us, and we all got to know each other. It was just much more intimate and cooperative. We were able to support and learn from each other.

How did your teachers support you in finding a job and career path after graduation?

Our teachers helped us to write our resumes and do college prep. I knew I want to make music, so I worked on mapping out a proper plan with our teachers, Leslie and Adam, and have been learning how to market myself and book studio shows. Elaine helped me make a plan and provided me with encouragement to keep going. This week, I am recording some new songs and sending them out to local artists and shows. I am also hoping to do an internship with a local artist this summer.

What advice would you give to another young person wondering if they should go back to pursue their high school degree?

I would tell them I understand times like this can be uncertain, so I would say make a clear vision of what you want to do and where you want to be. You might not love school itself, but it will help you get to where you want to be. You are the only person who can get you there.

To learn more about Catholic Charities Boston’s High School Equivalency programs, click here. To learn how you can support Catholic Charities clients, visit our Ways to Give page.