A Man with a Mission

While volunteering for a workers' rights organization in Boston, Ernest Best discovered a hidden problem: Many people applying for construction jobs didn't know how to read, even though some had high school diplomas. Turning workers away from jobs because they couldn't read was difficult for Best because he had struggled with literacy, too.

It was after this experience that he committed himself to adult literacy issues. Today, he is the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Alliance for Adult Literacy-an organization dedicated to improving the lives of adults through literacy. Best spoke with the Adult Literacy Media Alliance (ALMA) about his learning journey.

ALMA: What were some of the challenges you faced as an adult learner?

EB: I enrolled in an adult literacy program in 1994 so I could get my GED. It had been 20 years since I had been in high school, and I had a lot of fears about whether I could be a student again. But fear is a great motivator! I studied very hard and eventually received a scholarship to the University of Massachusetts, Boston. I was even more scared entering college. It's difficult to be in class with 18 year olds, but I keep focused on my studies and now I'm a straight A student.

ALMA: What are some of your thoughts on adult literacy?

EB: For me, adult literacy is not just about teaching people how to read and write. Adult literacy is part of a life changing experience that can help people move forward socially and economically. It's also about giving people confidence. If you believe in yourself, you can achieve great things.

ALMA: How has learning to read and write improved your life?

EB: I've discovered a great pleasure in being able to express myself clearly. I can now talk or write to people from all walks of life. It was very frustrating before when I couldn't fully explain my thoughts and ideas. I have much more confidence now, and it all started with an adult literacy program. That was the first step.