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My story doesn’t start here at Texas ChalleNGe Academy. It started when I was walking from my PE class to my algebra class. As I walked in the crowd of high schoolers in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, my phone chimed in my pocket.
When I looked down at my phone, I saw that my mom had sent me a link to TCA. Her message read that this program would help me to graduate early. Clicking on the website and reading “at risk youth,” offended me then. Now that I fully understand the term, I am more comfortable with it.
I wasn’t the best kid nor was I the worst kid. My mom always talked about my attitude, and I never understood how negative it was until I was here at TCA.
Day 0 was one I will never forget. The drive here was overwhelming and nerve-racking as I wondered what exactly was coming. Never will I forget our team leader, Ms. Thomas. She was my main TL for the first twelve weeks of the program. She was there for me when I was bawling my eyes out, wanting to go home. She told me to wait it out, trust the process, and that things would get better. It didn’t really help at the moment, but eventually it happened, and I am glad that I came to TCA and can see the changes it had on my life.
I used to be the most sensitive person. Every little thing would set me off, and I would cry. Now I know how to better handle situations and myself. I have learned not to overestimate or underestimate a person because I may be surprised with what I actually learn. I have learned that some friendships will last while others won’t. I have gained confidence in myself.
I never believed the director when he said that time would pass quickly, but now I understand. By the time that you read my story, we will have spent five days with our families over PRAP home pass and will have returned back to TCA to complete this challenge. We will graduate in December.
I am so glad that I came to TCA. In addition to schoolwork and life skills, it has taught me how to appreciate everything that I have and the people that will come in and out of my life. It has opened my eyes to so much and now I do believe that the sun will come out for me.
