I recently graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in psychology. It took me twelve years to get a four-year degree. The journey was not easy—it took a lot of practice, commitment, and resiliency. Being the first in my lineage to graduate high school and go to college, I was faced with many obstacles throughout my collegiate journey. The biggest obstacle was finding support resources and funding for my education. After quitting college twice, in 2014 I was finally motivated to go back to college and achieve my degree. I had a passion to break the cycle of a lack of education in my family. Once I found my support system in the Guardian Scholars Program, a statewide organization that helps support current and former foster youth college students, I was able to build more confidence in myself as a student. However, I thought that my pursuit towards breaking the cycle needed to be relentless. As a result, I have now changed the trajectory of my family’s history. One of the most impactful things I have gained throughout my educational journey is recovery and healing. School taught me how to be resilient in the face of adversity. I have restored hope to my family, friends, and community. I am truly thankful. If we are resilient enough, more is possible.
