A Troy woman credits Capital Region BOCES with giving her the opportunity she needed to change her life for the better.
Caro Miller graduated this summer from the adult Practical Nursing program. Taking that program was made possible by her completion of the High School Equivalency (HSE) program in 2024. (The HSE program prepares adults to earn a GED).
“I always knew I wanted more for myself and my family. Earning my GED was the first step toward changing my future. Once I accomplished that goal, I realized I was capable of so much more,” Miller said.
Capital Region BOCES Adult Practical Nursing Education graduation ceremony at Proctor’s in Schenectady on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
Miller was one of 70 adults to graduate from the Practical Nursing program this summer and one of dozens to graduate from the HSE program in 2024. A new class of Capital Region BOCES Adult Education program graduates will be honored August 19 during a 5 p.m. ceremony at Hackett Middle School in Albany.
Miller, who is 39, said she had always had a desire to help others through nursing.
“Nursing has always been something I was passionate about because I love helping people. I worked as a certified nurse assistant (CNA) for many years. I then started to take care of people in their homes so they didn’t have to go to a nursing facility. I knew the next step was to enroll in the nursing program,” Miller said.
The Troy resident said returning to school had its share of challenges, but it was worth it.
“There were many moments when I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and questioned whether I could make it, but I never gave up. Graduation represents breaking barriers, creating a better future for myself and my family, and proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams,” she said.
As to her future, Miller plans to continue her education at Maria College to become a Registered Nurse and to “continue growing in the healthcare field while making a positive impact on my patients and my community.”
Her HSE teacher Ursula LeGere praised the adult scholar.
“She was laser focused on getting her GED so that she could attend nursing school. In class, Caro was a model of hard work, tenacity, integrity, optimism, hope, and compassion and was greatly respected by her classmates,” LeGere said.
Miller said Capital Region BOCES provided her with the opportunities she needed to fulfill her dreams.
“BOCES allowed me to completely change my life. It gave me the education, confidence, and support I needed to accomplish goals I once thought were out of reach,” she said.
“If you’re willing to work hard and stay committed, BOCES can truly open doors and help you build a better future,” Miller added.