Quanesha B. / “I believe that community and consistent connection relate to success after foster care, because it allows youth to achieve sustainable lifestyles.”
One of the biggest moments of Quanesha’s life began with a letter of acceptance into the USC Master of Social Work program.
It was a moment that represented far more than reaching an academic milestone. It meant stepping into a dream she has carried for a long time.
“I have always dreamt of going to this particular institution since I was a young child,” Quanesha says.
But the path to that dream hasn’t always been easy. Looking back on her experience in foster care, Quanesha shares:
“I am most proud of the instances and barriers I faced and my resilience and perseverance to overcome them.”
That resilience became especially important after she left care. Quanesha experienced homelessness for several years, and by the time she learned about resources available to former foster youth, she was over the age limit to qualify.
“I believe that community and consistent connection relate to success after foster care, because it allows youth to achieve sustainable lifestyles,” she says. “Obtaining knowledge, receiving support, and having someone in your corner makes a difference in the trajectory of success for youth.”
As Quanesha pursues her education, she has experienced firsthand the significance of having people in her corner, saying:
“Over the course of my academic journey I have created meaningful relationships with individuals and organizations that have had a great impact on my perception of obtaining higher education and my outlook on life.”
Now, she wants to create that same sense of possibility for others. Quanesha’s goals extend far beyond earning her master’s degree. She hopes to become a licensed clinical social worker, operate a nonprofit organization, and provide mentorship to foster youth. She also wants young people currently in foster care to know that their circumstances do not have to define their future.
“Being a foster child is not your identity. It is an experience and only a chapter in your book of life. Take advantage of any and all resources and opportunities that are available to you.”
Her own experience has also shaped what she hopes will change for young people aging out of care. Quanesha believes there needs to be “a greater effort toward ensuring foster youth are made aware of their options after leaving care.” Because sometimes, having the right information at the right time, along with someone to help you navigate it, can change everything. She believes the community has a role to play, too, saying:
“The general public can help youth in foster care by educating themselves, donating to organizations that support foster youth, and possibly offering a safe and healthy home to foster youth.”
As Quanesha looks toward her own future, she’s carrying more than a degree and a childhood dream with her. She’s carrying the resilience she built, the relationships that helped her along the way, and a commitment to make sure other young people have the community and connections they need to move forward.
One day, she hopes to be the person in someone else’s corner. And perhaps that is what makes her acceptance into USC so special, because Quanesha isn’t just continuing her own journey. She’s preparing to help change what’s possible for someone else.
Like Quanesha, you can use your voice to tell your story and help others understand the foster care experience. Share your story here.
