Four years after arriving in Maine as an asylum seeker from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Narcisse Isafamba resumed his university studies at the University of Maine, Augusta, in September.
This time, Narcisse is pursuing a degree in public administration, he said, because "Maine might need more people from different backgrounds to help other new Mainers."
Back in the Congo, Narcisse pursued a degree in engineering, so it didn't surprise him at all when he scored a perfect 20 on the math HiSET
The HiSET diploma was they to go for Narcisse to earn a high school credential, according to Paul Elisha, academic counselor, because UMA didn't accept the credits Narcisse earned at his African university.
Narcisse credits Paul with providing the support he needed to return to college. Narcisse and his wife recently bought a home in Bowdoinham where they live with their three children. He works full-time as a security officer at Bowdoin College.
"I didn't want to have to go all the way to Portland for adult education," he said. "I just googled 'adult ed' and I was surprised to see there was one here in Topsham. Paul helped me so much."
That was less than a year ago. Narcisse decided the HiSET was the right pathway for him, because "it got me in the school and studying mindset again."
For more information about HiSET preparation, testing, College Transitions, and classes for English Language Learners, please call 729-7323 or 443-8255 to speak with an academic counselor.
