Barriers Are Building Blocks!
Graduating from Community College of Philadelphia has been a huge milestone in my academic career. As a first generation college student, I look forward to building upon that continued success by completing my second degree this academic school year. It is my hope, that by obtaining this additional degree, I will increase my overall chances of employability at a youth servicing organization. Currently, I am 5 classes away from a degree in behavioral health.
Unfortunately, I do not have the financial means to pay out of pocket right now and I fear that all of my hard work during the 2016-2017 academic year could be jeopardized. Nonetheless, engaging in this sort of multi-disciplinarian study has been very rewarding for me and has inspired me to pursue a master’s degree in social work and create my own outreach programs for youth. It is my hope that through utilizing the arts, many young people will find their voice, channel negativity and create meaningful social commentary and or content around the issues that affect, empower and uplift them most.
Moreover, my overall goal is to develop a more creative and innovative approach to youth work and become a coveted resource for Positive Youth Development within the city of Philadelphia. Although I have huge standards for the quality of life I wish to live I also have several extenuating barriers that has made this transition extremely difficult. Unlike most students, I lack the minimal family support systems to help alleviate some of my socio-economic barriers.
In August of 1994 I became a ward of the court at age 11 and was placed in DHS custody because of my mother’s life long bout with schizophrenia. Moving past the trauma of growing up without my parents or any other viable family structure was extremely difficult but through hard work, dedication and transcending my pain through the gift of learning, I have been able to propel myself forward. Throughout my academic career and personal journey, learning has not only given me solace within my innermost darkest moments but purpose and strength in instances of uncertainty.
Redirecting negative emotions and or thoughts into positive action has not only helped me find my inner voice but has also encouraged other youth around me to seek theirs as well. This has not only become my passion but my number one motivating force for working with youth. In addition, another contributing factor to my current financial hardships is my inability to obtain adequate and affordable housing. Last summer I had to leave my home of 6 years due to severe roof damage and non repair on the behalf of my landlord.
In addition, I strongly believe that higher education is the bridge way between hopelessness and self-sufficiency. Institutions like Community College of Philadelphia provide strong supports and resources to help students like me raise our overall quality of life and thrive within society. I believe that working with skilled professors and human service professionals at the college has empowered me to take accountability over my life and seize ownership over my decisions in a holistic way.
After battling many challenges during my adolescence and young adulthood, I am convinced that education is the only way pathway to creating lasting change and manifesting brilliant ideas. I sincerely appreciate your time in reviewing my motivations for continuing my education despite my current financial shortcomings.
Thank you!