September is back-to-school month in Maine. Children start the academic year, and so do those adults who want to continue their education past high school. For many recent adult immigrants, pursuing educational opportunities is key to establishing a new life in the United States. The Greater Portland area offers adults a wide variety of programs and courses from which to choose. A few of these are highlighted: Belyse Ndayikunda, Axels Samuntu, Prudent Hdiho, and Firdaws Hakuzimana – all living in Greater Portland – share their personal educational stories. The October issue will feature programs and personal stories from other cities and towns in Maine.