Some adults got decked out in caps and gowns and were handed their high school diplomas Tuesday.  NY1's Shannan Ferry filed this report from their graduation ceremony in Flushing. 

It's a moment Hema Rampersad has dreamed about for years.  Wearing a cap and gown and being handed her high school diploma. 

The Fresh Meadows resident moved to the United States as a teen, but when her mother returned to their native Trinidad she was left without documentation. 

"And she left me back with friends, but I couldn't finish school cause I didn't have an address," she said. 

Fast forward to Tuesday, Rampersad was one of dozens to turn their tassels at the Flushing Library.

They all earned their high school diplomas through the Queens Library's' adult learner program.  

It provides free resources to help residents achieve a higher education. 

"And I'm able to provide for my son, and take care of myself, and you know, look to see what else is better out there.  I don't have to settle anymore,"  Rampersad said. 

Most of graduates are immigrants, and all of them have a story. 

Amna Khan earned a degree in Pakistan, but had to start over when she came to America. 

Afrania Gonzalez is from Colombia, and proves that age is only a number. 

"I'm so proud of myself, I am 72 years old!" Gonzalez said. 

"They deal with math, English, you name it, and they are really succeeding," said Dennis Walcott, who is the CEO/President of the Queens Library. 

For many of these graduates, their journeys are only beginning.  They say with a high school equivalency diploma the possibilities are endless.

"I also wanted to do um, a real estate," said Vensa Dawson, who is a graduate. 

"They can enroll in college, they can feel confident, they can apply for jobs," said Nancy Almatare, who is a Customer Service Specialist at the Queens Library. 

As for Rampersad, she's already found employment as a dental assistant. 

Her 14-year-old son will begin his high school journey this fall.