Aaliyah D. / Education will take you far

Being a foster youth impacted my determination tremendously when I found out only a small percentage (3%) of foster youth continue their education and become college graduates.

I really hate all the negative myths that people have assumed about foster youth, because not all foster youth turn out bad and many foster youth end up with loving families and thriving lives!

One of the biggest accomplishments that makes me the most proud would have to be being a first generation graduate out of my mother, father and seven siblings. I recently graduated from Santa Monica College in Los Angeles, California with a degree in Business Logistics. Since then, I have transferred to Texas Southern University to finish my undergrad degree in teaching or business. Education means everything to me because I am a first generation grad and I am filled with joy to help my children apply for colleges and experience things I've never had the chance to experience. And I also want to always have a plan B and be able to apply for any position I want with the education to back me up! In the next five years I see myself finishing my education, purchasing a house, and still remaining active in the foster youth community. And I would not mind adopting in the next five years.

My advice to foster youth in the foster care system now would be to always continue your education, find a mentor, and make sure to save. Education and knowledge will always take you far. Finding a great mentor for life in general or for your specific interest can be a great benefit. I really enjoyed participating in the IMAGINELA mentorship program and recommend that program or something similar. Make sure you have a savings account and maintain good credit.

The biggest factors in my educational success would have to be discipline and determination. I had to learn to discipline myself and there were many times where I had to make a choice between my social life and educational goals. I’ve even had friends scold me for choosing my goals. But my determination has always been there and I know to stay focused.