Perseverance shines through

Tamra Corely-Dunn has proven that determination does not have an expiration date.  After failing to complete high school, she made a promise to herself that she would obtain her general education development (GED) one day.

‘One day’ turned into years.  Finally, after witnessing her two daughters finish college and receive their Master degrees, it was her time. 

It was also time to tell her daughters about the decision she made to drop out of high school.  It was a secret she silently kept over many years in fear her daughters might take the same path. 

Corely-Dunn enrolled in the Tri-County Community College (TCCC) Adult Basic Skills program almost 30 years to the date she dropped out of high school. 

“I would have never attempted this before moving to Murphy,” said Corely-Dunn, who was displaced from her home by a Florida hurricane. “After meeting everyone I was reassured and encouraged by that I could finally accomplish my goal.”

Corely-Dunn did accomplish her goal and more.  She finished her GED at TCCC, plus earned a cosmetology diploma and started work in a local salon.

“It has been a complete and total blessing for me to be here at Tri-County Community College,” said Corely-Dunn.  “I never could have dreamed of being back in school at my age, but I did it and I succeeded. The faculty and staff and gone the extra mile for whatever I needed.  If it is a dream of yours then you can do it if you are committed and dedicated.”

Corely-Dunn is currently seeking degrees in Business Administration and has also enrolled in the Entrepreneurship program at TCCC.