I am so thankful for being able to attend the MS Youth Challenge Program. I was a very self-destructive teen, and I was lost. YCP broke me down and rebuilt me. I learned leadership, friendship, respect, and how important it was to work for what you have and want. I graduated 18 years ago, and in that time, I have been fairly successful. I have 3 children and 3 college degrees. I graduated Pearl River Community College with an associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy. I then went on to graduate from the University of Southern Mississippi with a bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration and Management and lastly, I graduated from William Carey University with a master's degree in Healthcare Administration and Education. I would have never been able to accomplish those goals or dreams if it weren't for the determination and drive that I learned from the Youth Challenge Program (YCP). My youngest daughter also attended YCP five years ago and she is currently working on her bachelor’s in graphic design and art. She has also been awarded several scholarships for her work ethics and honors. Again, YCP gave her the confidence and courage to pursue her dreams. I will never be able to thank the instructors and office personnel enough for everything they did for me and my family.

I didn't complete the GED prior to finishing the program. However, when I graduated, I kept trying and I eventually got it. Now I am currently in the process of joining the military to become a Military Police. So, the moral of the story is even if you don't get it while you are there, never give up on your goals. Integrity, discipline and never giving up on yourself will get you far in life even when times get hard.