Someone asked me recently if there was something I would change from my time in high school. There is, and that list is endless. I could have gotten better grades, applied to more scholarships for college or I could have been more involved. They laughed at my response and asked if there was something I don’t regret doing. I don’t regret joining Community Bridges. At first, it was just an afterschool program my friend dragged me to. “It’s fun! We get snacks every meeting and go on field trips,” I was convinced already. I joined Community Bridges my sophomore year of high school. I participated in the girls program and the mentoring program for 3 years. To this day, I thank Community Bridges for shaping me into who I am today. The weekly lessons taught about self-esteem, mental health, relationships, and career advancements all resonated with me.
As a first generation student, the resources and mentorship that were provided made the process of transitioning from high school to college less stressful. I didn’t mention it to anyone, but at the time I was scared that I wouldn’t get into any schools. My grades weren’t the best, and I just had no clue what I wanted to do in college. My mentor, Ms. Shannon, sat down with me one day and we talked about her career journey. I remember sitting there thinking I wanted to be just like her. She helped me with my college application and my college essays. I got accepted into Trinity Washington University with a full scholarship. I will be graduating May 2021 with a major in Communications and a minor in Business Administration.
CB created this safe environment for us that I had never felt anywhere else. A judge free area, where women that came from different backgrounds gathered together to encourage, support and empower each other. That is why I chose to intern for Community Bridges. I see this opportunity as a way of paying it forward and influencing other girls the way that I was through guidance, motivation, and support. Positive youth development is so important because what we learn in our youth is essentially what builds our character in our lifespan. Community Bridge’s mission of helping each girl fulfill her potential has been proven possible multiple times. Based on my experiences, I will be able to work and build that same relationship with other girls who share similar goals in life. My enthusiasm for this organization and my desire to make my mark will help me shape Community Bridges, either by working hands on with the girls or behind the scenes.