For Ashelynn, finding the right educational path meant finding an environment that worked for her.

While attending Rockport High School, Ashelynn began looking for an alternative to the traditional classroom setting that offered more flexibility and individualized support. Her guidance counselor introduced her to Action Inc.’s Compass Youth Program.

After enrolling in the program, Ashelynn quickly found the program’s flexible approach was a much better fit for her. “I would come down here two or three hours at a time, a couple days a week,” Ashelynn said. “I could work at the pace that I was capable of at the time, speeding up or slowing down when I needed to.” 

Ashelynn also appreciated the individualized instruction which allowed her to ask questions and learn in an environment where she felt comfortable. The Compass Youth Program gave her the ability to learn in a setting and schedule that worked for her, while providing the support she needed along the way.

Her experience with the program extended far beyond earning her high school equivalency certificate. Through Compass, she was connected with resources and opportunities that helped her discover an entirely new direction for her future.

“They introduced me to quite a few resources and really just helped me figure out how to get to where I am now.”

The Compass team connected Ashelynn with Gloucester Biotechnology Academy, where she received hands-on biotechnology training. Today, through her internship at GMGI, she works directly with aquatic life, including caring for sea urchins and monitoring their aquarium environments.

These experiences have helped Ashelynn take important steps toward her long-term goal of working with animals, particularly in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

“Being able to work with animals immediately, right out of high school, is incredible,” she said. “It’s exactly where I need to be.”

Looking back, Ashelynn sees Compass as an important step toward the future she is building for herself.

“If traditional learning isn’t working, it might not be the right fit for you,” she said. “If you think that pursuing a different style of education and getting your GED is what’s best for you, absolutely do it. I would recommend Compass wholeheartedly. It was the best decision I’ve made in a very long time.”