Did you know that the United States’ GED (General Education Development) program has a fascinating beginning? It began during World War II, where many young, brave souls served our country without finishing high school. With soldiers needing a way to earn their high school diplomas, the U.S. Armed Forces rose to the challenge of creating an alternative pathway for service members to earn a high school-level education. In response, in 1942, the GED program was introduced.
Initially, GED was an exclusive program, and only active military service members and veterans were allowed to participate. During this time, about 18 million soldiers and veterans took part in the program. However, in the late 1940s, the Armed Forces began to open up the program to civilians, transforming it to fit the modern world.
Now, in 2026, Americans from all walks of life can participate in and benefit from High School Equivalency (HSE) programs. HSE programs, like the GED, are educational paths that help individuals without a traditional high school education earn an official credential equivalent to a high school diploma. Students also now have the choice to participate in either the GED or HiSET program, another HSE diploma program offered in approximately 25 states, including Pennsylvania. Currently, however, close to 10% of the current U.S. population still has not earned their HSE diploma.
So why sign up for a HSE program and earn your diploma?
- Opportunities for a Better Job, Career, or Salary
Most of the HSE students that walk through The Open Link’s doors are also looking for a better job. Many have spent time in low-wage jobs, and they know they want something better for themselves and their families. However, employers are now more likely to require proof of a high school education. With so much digital information available at our fingertips, it’s easy to verify if a candidate has earned their high school diploma. Unfortunately, not having that critical piece of paper can inhibit an individual from receiving better job offers or progressing in their career.
Additionally, having a high school diploma can increase a professional’s salary by almost $10,000 per year. As evidenced by data from the US Career Institute, the average salary for an individual who has earned their high school diploma is $48,360, while those without a diploma earn an average of $38,376 per year. Average salaries also continue to increase with additional education, and an HSE diploma can open doors to both higher education and higher salaries!
- Opportunities for Higher Education and Training
From my perspective as a teacher, there seems to be a stigma about having a GED or HiSET diploma versus a traditional high school diploma when entering the college arena. The truth is that all universities accept GED or HiSET diplomas, even the Ivy League schools! While they may require high SAT/ACT scores or other factors for entrance, college acceptance and entry is possible with an HSE diploma. Right now, most students in our HSE program and in our county choose Montgomery County Community College to start, as the Pottstown and Blue Bell campuses are local. For many students, it’s a softer landing into higher education, as a third of Montco’s students are non-traditional students. Montco also offers many educational programs to choose from, including certifications, specialized workforce training certificates, and associate degrees, which offer flexibility and meet the diverse educational, economic, and scheduling needs of students.
We also have a number of additional opportunities for professional training and growth in and near the Upper Perk Valley. For example, local hospital systems, including St. Luke’s, also provide free or low-cost training and certifications. North Montco Technical Career Center offers some night courses in trades like construction, cosmetology, and welding. Internships are also available at local businesses. There are plenty of opportunities for growth for those with their HSE diplomas!
- Personal Reasons and Growth
Some HSE students join our program because they want to fulfill their longtime goal of earning their HSE diploma. Sometimes, they regret not finishing high school or earning their diploma and are now ready to study, test, and build a better future for themselves. Going back to school may not be easy. It might take some time. Thankfully, it’s 2 days a week for a few hours versus 5 days a week for most of the day. That said, a little grace and patience are needed. But it’s absolutely, positively doable, and it’s a small sacrifice for a large gain.
Interested in earning your HSE diploma and setting yourself up for a better job, additional education opportunities, and the chance to achieve something you’ll be so proud of? We offer in-person and online classes, prep materials, tutoring, and free testing. The first step is to pick up the phone and call or fill out the interest form online. We’re ready to help.
Contact me at instructor@theopenlink.org or 215-679-4112 to set up an information session. Classes and materials are free. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Classes:
Online or In-person: Mondays and Wednesdays 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
In-person: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 6:30 PM – 9:00PM
