I attended 10 schools before I began 9th grade at East High School. During my four years at East, I moved nine times. In the midst of my life being very unstable, I turned to Jesus and found stability in Him. Through relationships with several UYM mentors, I found the support I needed to keep moving forward. Dealing with abandonment, poverty, and homelessness, I learned to draw my strength from God. During a very difficult time in my life, I took comfort in knowing that God was with me and would see me through. I shared with my mentors what helped me during that time:
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
I have learned to be an overcomer who refuses to be a victim. During high school I took AP and honors classes, performed in three choirs, worked at a part time job, and was involved in UYM and other extra-curricular activities throughout high school. I started high school as a typical teenager – insecure and unsure of who I was or what direction I was going. But by the time I graduated from high school, I found identity in being a child of God and had a clear vision for my future. As I depend on Him, I’ve seen God open doors for me and give me so many incredible opportunities. Pursuing my dream of being a commercial pilot, I was able to take flight lessons, solo and receive my private pilot certificate before heading off to college at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.