Every Story Holds a Lesson: Reflections from a Student Ambassador

Every Story Holds a Lesson: Reflections from a Student Ambassador

Hi there, I hope you and all the listeners are doing well and staying healthy. First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere appreciation for this unforgettable and enriching journey. COABE 2025 was an incredibly valuable and educational conference that broadened my perspective in adult education.
This was my first time participating in such a good conference. When my teacher, Mrs. Sheila Butler, first asked me whether I would like to attend the conference in Dallas, Texas, I wasn’t sure and hesitated at first. But after thinking it through, I realized this would be a great opportunity to learn and connect with people from different backgrounds-so I accepted, and I’m truly glad that I did.

I travelled from Bloomington, Indiana, to Dallas with Mrs. Sheila and her husband, and returned home on my own. As for the conference itself, I must say it was an exceptional experience. I participated as a student leader, representing the state of Indiana. I had the chance to learn about various topics and even met some Afghan girls. I heard many personal stories- people’s experiences, their struggles and successes, and how they ultimately achieved their goals.

There were two keynote speakers who shared their life journeys and accomplishments. Interestingly, one was American, Ms. Rebecca Contreras, the author of the lost girl book, and the other was originally from Ukraine but raised in the U.S., Michael Ivanov, the author of The Cabin at the end of the train book. I took away many lessons from their stories.

On the second day of the conference, we participated in the Ambassador Training Program. At the end, we were awarded certificates for our participation. I’d like to highlight two important takeaways from that program:

1. We learned the meaning of the word persistent, and I want to briefly discuss the meaning behind each letter in the word. P-purely, E-encourage, R-reflect on small wins, S-stay consistent, I-invest in learning, S-support, T-take responsibility, E-embrace challenges, N-never give up, T-trust the process.
2. We were given time to write about our lives, and more importantly, our achievements and successes. It was a great opportunity to share the milestones we’ve reached.

It was a great conference. One powerful quote that stayed with me from COABE 2025 was:
“Everyone has a story.” And I would like to add: “Every story holds a lesson-a positive motivation for those who listen.” 

My final message to all adult learners is this:
Never stop trying. The road to success is filled with ups and downs, but true success lies in your ability to push through those challenges and never give up.

And to those young individuals who have not yet taken steps to earn their high school diploma, I say once again, just as I have said before: Now is the time to rise, visit the nearest education center, enroll in a youth program, and take the first step toward building a better future.

This is the first and most important step on the path to success. Don’t miss your
opportunity-who knows, maybe at a future COABE conference, you will be one of the keynote speakers.

Thank you.

Zuhal Razman, IAACE 2024 Adult Learner of the Year

Guest Blogger