At 64, Michael made a choice most people wouldn’t expect. He went back to earn his GED. 

He had already built a full life - more than 35 years working in procurement with leading companies, and, outside of work, performing and choreographing with a modern dance company he would eventually lead as artistic director. He had a career. Stability. A full life. 

But not having his high school diploma was something he carried with him for years, something he wanted to finally finish for himself.  

Going back wasn’t easy. Sitting down to study again, walking into testing after so much time away, those moments came with doubt. He wondered what he’d remember, how it would feel, and whether he could still do it. 

With support from GED+ and his local adult education program in Oregon, he kept going. Michael credits these tools, the guidance and advisor support to his success, which helped him stay on track and provided the flexibility he needed to prepare for and pass the GED test. 

And when he finished, it wasn’t just relief; it was pride. 

“I would definitely encourage anyone considering getting their GED to take the leap and make it happen.  I can't even explain how good this has made me feel about myself, knowing that I faced my fears head-on and then made it happen,” Howerton said. 

Now, he’s not slowing down. Michael has enrolled in his local community college and plans to pursue an Associate of General Studies this fall. As someone who is hearing impaired, he’s also interested in learning American Sign Language, with the goal of one day becoming an ASL interpreter and giving back in his community.