Daniel Da Silva - New England Hair Academy

Barber school has been exciting and fast paced this past fall. The first two months were all about learning the core basics to where I now cut client’s hair in the school’s student barbershop. Everyday I come to school I learn new or improve old skills in a variety of ways, whether it’s cutting techniques or communication skills with clients. My days at school are never dull and differ with new clients walking in the door everyday. On top of that my classmates all come from different aspects of life each with their own stories and backgrounds and yet we still all get along very well. Some classmates are around my age while others are in their 30s and 40s. I find that great as I can see different perspectives and upbringings in this industry we all share a passion for. Attendance is a vital aspect of school that professionals look for in aspiring barbers, and as of right now I have perfect attendance. Along with perfect attendance I have received other awards for teamwork, academic excellence, outstanding freshman, and hopefully more to come in the future. Aside from my experiences in barber school I’ve been learning how to live on my own during all of this. I had to learn how to balance my school life with my new independent home life, which may be normal for some people but took me some time getting used to. I’d do my own grocery shopping to cook dinner and make sure I still have time to do my school assignments on top of all that. Overall my post high school education has been going great so far and with it not being like a traditional college I am done fairly soon. With that in mind I intend to keep up the hard work I’ve been putting in for this last half.

Dyana Burke - Spa Tech Institute

My first few months at esthetics school have been an amazing experience. It has taught me more than just about esthetics. My class at esthetics school wasn’t what I was expecting. My class alone has more adult students, than ones my age. This was a bit nerve-racking my first day, when we all introduced ourselves and everyone said their age. Many of my fellow classmates are married and with children, and then there’s me, an eighteen year old who barely knows how to drive on the highway. But really, I had nothing to fear the first day, as I’m so grateful to be surrounded by such amazing women that I have really begun to look up to, not only in esthetics but in life. I have really enjoyed studying what I have such a big passion for. It has made me very grateful for the times in high school, where I actually paid attention in biology and chemistry class. But, for every student, no matter where you are, there are challenges. As my school’s attendance goes by hours instead of days, it has been challenging and stressful, (especially if I get sick and have to make-up a class). It’s challenging because every second you miss (in a class), you have to make up in order to graduate. For my program, I need 600 hours of class. Thankfully though, my school is very helpful for making up days. I can’t really complain about stress though, when I’m sitting almost every day getting a facial, or some other kind of service. I love being able to practice with real people. It especially makes it fun being able to work on your friends, and even some days we get to work with real clients. It really helps to prepare you. At first it was very scary working with a real client but now it’s really fun. It’s like playing “Spa” as a kid with your friends again. I’m really looking forward to these next few months as I am starting to finish up at esthetics school. This opportunity would not have been possible without MVYouth. I am so grateful for their support and helping me be able to do what I have a passion for. I’m looking forward to my future, and I’m excited to see what’s next!

Hanna Santos - Cape Cod Community College

This fall was for sure, a fresh start. College, work, new circle of people, and adjusting to the idea of not being in high school anymore. It has been a significant change for me, and I’m still adapting to this new phase of my life, but it has been a great adventure so far. I started my college journey at Cape Cod Community College by taking online classes. I’m a psychology major. I was so nervous when school was about to begin because I didn’t know what it would be like. To be honest, it has been the most wholesome experience of my life. I took this psychology course, where I learned so much about why we behave the way we do, and I already feel like an actual psychologist ready to work in my field. Studying psychology is not just about learning about the human mind and behavior. It's also an opportunity to learn about yourself. As you delve into the complexities of the human psyche, you may find that you gain a deeper understanding of your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I am profoundly grateful for MVYouth and the opportunity they have given me. It has not only lightened the financial load but has also empowered me to pursue my educational aspirations with determination and confidence. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and will continue to work hard to honor the faith that has been placed in me. I am grateful for the support of the scholarship and the doors it has opened for me, and I hope to pay it forward by making a positive impact in my chosen field and giving back to the community in the future.

Josephine Welch - Boston College

I think that many can agree that the adjustment to college is far from easy. Growing up on a small island with a tight-knit community and shifting to college is difficult. This semester, what I found is that beyond its challenges, lives personal growth and so much excitement. Walking to class and not recognizing faces was new for me. Although I was now experiencing a whirlwind of new, I was able to find a sense of community that I was always so used to. My home within Boston College was found in the nursing program, a select group of around 100 students out of my 2,335-person class. I shared the majority of my classes with these people. We worked hard together, struggled together, and laughed together. I have fallen in love with the environment the programs brings, one that wants everyone to succeed towards a shared goal. My first semester has been filled to the max with new friends, exploring, football games, fun, and of course, memorizing every bone and muscle of the human body. While focusing on mostly rigorous, nursing-heavy classes (chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and labs), Boston College also requires every student to fulfill their liberal arts core curriculum. This allowed me to take classes outside of my normal comfort, like art history and theology, and expand my knowledge beyond the sciences. Being right outside of Boston has been a great experience. I’ve enjoyed having a sense of a campus in Newton while also being able to explore a city that, although so close to home, feels like a whole different world! Exploring a city known to be the best in healthcare has made me eager for my future. I feel extremely grateful for the newness that every day brings and for MVYouth giving me the opportunity to take it all in. Roll Eags!

Ana Kurelja - Wheaton College

So far, this past semester as a freshman at Wheaton College has been memorable. Starting in their new nursing program has been exciting and challenging in the best way. I spend a lot of my time completing work for the nursing program but never do I find myself not wanting to do it. I feel that I am always contributing to my future in some way. The level of support throughout my school and overload of friendship is amazing. This first semester has been a ton of new experiences but all where I have been guided and supported. I have learned anything from chemistry to wellness within nurses to the basics of nursing as a career. Growing up on Martha’s Vineyard then accelerating to Norton was thrilling. Norton is a small town that does not have much around which gave me the same kind of close knit feel that I had growing up. I have loved the new nature and places to explore when I am able to take breaks from my academics. I am so thankful for MVYouth and all the opportunities that it has given me. This semester I have learned so much being surrounded by a totally new environment, but I have also learned so much within myself. I can not wait for this new semester, and all the new experiences and classes that it will bring to me.

Cali Giglio - College of Charleston

During my first semester at the College of Charleston, I have had the privilege of encountering numerous opportunities, inspirational professors, and the chance to integrate my passions into my extracurricular activities. I recently became a member of the club tennis team, where I have already forged lasting, meaningful friendships and cherished memories while enjoying my favorite sport. While diligently attending to my academic responsibilities at the library (accompanied by my eight roommates – it's quite a lively environment), I have managed to up hold my commitment to playing club tennis twice a week and even embarked on journeys to Savannah, Georgia, for multi-school tournaments. This semester also marked my introduction to my major: Exercise Science. Guided by an exceptional professor, I gained insight into the myriad of career prospects awaiting me, ranging from a physical therapist to a sports nutritionist. I not only committed heavily to my coursework this semester but also succeeded in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a personal priority of mine. Alongside my tennis endeavors, I have ventured to explore the vibrant city of Charleston, discovering new yoga studios and scenic walking spots. My experience at the College of Charleston has been nothing short of exceptional, and I'm profoundly thankful to MVYouth for providing me with this invaluable opportunity.

Evelyn Brewer - University of Southern California

While it was a big change to move across the country to California, the moment I was on campus, I knew I had made the right decision in choosing USC as my university. I was nervous about making friends as this was an entirely new environment and I didn't know anyone there. I decided to attend the first welcome event, and it was when I was anxiously waiting in line that I met people who ended up being my closest friends. Throughout the first week, I met many new people and great friends. I've seen so many places around the city, such as the Griffith Observatory, beaches, and the Hollywood sign. It's been so much fun to attend the football and basketball games at the Coliseum. USC offers a variety of clubs and activities that have allowed me to explore some of my interests. I have decided to join the tennis club, Share a Meal, American Lung Association, and Best Buddies. I was so excited about beginning my studies in Occupational Therapy and the class only reinforced my desire to pursue OT as a career. I found every class engaging and always learned something new and interesting. I was also surprised by how much I enjoyed some of my required GE courses, such as International Relations and Seminar in the Arts. I would love to be able to continue taking more IR classes in the future. I'm so glad how amazing and supportive all of my professors were because it makes such a huge difference. I want to thank MVYouth for their support and I am so grateful for all the opportunities the scholarship has provided for me. I can't wait to head into this next semester!

Julia Sayre - Brown University

I recently completed my first semester at Brown University and could not be happier with my choice. I found my adjustment to Providence very smooth, coming from the ruralness of the Vineyard. I love to explore each part of the city and become acquainted with my home for the next four years. I explored multiple academic disciplines this semester, including environmental science, dance studies, and religious studies. The academic freedom Brown fosters made me realize I want to pursue a major in environmental studies, as I thoroughly enjoyed my class that connected sustainable agriculture and global hunger. I had a unique opportunity in my Introduction to Critical Dance Studies, where I was the only student. There, I had the opportunity to engage deeply with each of my readings and have exceptional one-on-one discussions with my professor. Considering I had immense authority over my learning, I thoroughly enjoyed my reading and writing assignments. Outside of academics, I’ve been an active member of the Women’s Health Advocacy Group and Brown’s chapter of Sunrise, a national environmental justice group. Next semester, I’m hoping to venture more into the broader Providence community to engage in volunteering opportunities. I’ve realized the importance of time management and finding ways to de-stress and rest my mind from the strenuous workload. I’ve joined the Brown Outing Club and Brown Rock Climbing Club and found that exercise in college has been a great way to do this. I remain immensely grateful for MVYouth’s generosity and support. It has provided me with amazing and unique experiences at a school I am already falling in love with.

Penelope Long - Simmons University

My first-ever college semester was very exciting. As a first-generation college student, I did not have many expectations, only nervousness. I arrived early on the Simmons University campus for Field Hockey pre-season. I was greeted instantly by a built-in family. Over some time, I’ve installed my ideals about being a tight-knit group within my teammates. Coming from Martha’s Vineyard, I was so grateful for the tight community I had at school, in sports and overall. I cultivated this same feeling for myself and the others around me at school. I fractured my fibula just about halfway through the season and this is when I realized just how well I tied together my team. My teammates showed up for me in every way they could but what meant most was when they carried my stick out for every game and placed it beside theirs. In the last game of our season I gave a speech to my team about how they impacted my college experience for the better and how they really are a family. In my speech, I led with the idea that we play for each other. This sparked an idea and we all put tape on our wrists and wrote why we play. Looking around the locker room was so heart-warming. All the girls wrote they were playing for our field hockey family. On the more academic side of things, being an NCAA athlete and STEM major was difficult to navigate initially. After getting into the groove, I found the space to learn how I wanted. I really enjoyed being in the laboratory and working hands-on with the material. Looking forward, I’m so excited to see how I can impact others around me this next semester and the next steps I can take in cultivating my education.

Wren Christy - Middlebury College

During my first semester at college, I have had so many new and exciting experiences. Throughout my short time at Middlebury so far, I have been challenged both academically and personally. Middlebury is full of welcoming and wonderful people who I know will be lifelong friends of mine. The community and environment of Middlebury is so supportive – both the teachers and students.

At first, I was slightly overwhelmed by starting out the year involved with a sport as well as many academically challenging classes. Although everything felt like a lot, I knew that I had many people I could rely on. I was excited to take lots of interesting classes, including pursuing my interest in psychology. I was able to take many classes that I didn’t even know existed and learned a lot of helpful and intriguing information.

I was also very excited to be part of a sports team at Middlebury. I was able to continue my love for running as well as be a part of a group of wonderful people that have become some of my closest friends.
Middlebury has provided me with so many helpful resources about clubs, careers, and classes. Although it is hard to fit the many things I want to do at this school into only a certain amount of days, I look forward to joining clubs that could help me pursue my love for psychology as well as others that could help me think about what I want for my future. During the fall semester, my first psychology class was challenging, but even so, my professor instilled a curiosity in me to learn more. I am excited to explore the major of psychology as well as explore many other paths I could take.

I am so grateful for the support that MVYouth has provided me. I couldn’t be happier at Middlebury College and I am so excited for everything else that this beautiful place has in store for me. It means so much to me that so many people from the Martha's Vineyard community want to support me in my future at Middlebury. I can’t thank MVYouth or the Island community enough.

Jack Crawford - Bowdoin College

My first semester at Bowdoin College has been incredible. When I applied early decision last year, I never expected to love the school as much as I do, but Bowdoin is the perfect fit for me. Bowdoin's unique distribution requirements have allowed me to explore courses beyond my intended major. In my first semester, I took Italian and discovered a passion I plan to continue next semester. I also took an Astronomy course and a first-year writing seminar in Film Noir. The highlight of my semester was an advanced Theory and Composition course in songwriting, where our class collaboratively wrote and produced a full-length album. This hands-on experience honed my musical skills and fostered a deep sense of creative collaboration. Beyond the classroom, I joined the club rowing team and am excited to transition to varsity rowing this spring. I played piano for a Jazz Combo and sang with one of Bowdoin's all-male a cappella groups, the Longfellows. I joined Bowdoin’s Hillel to celebrate Hanukkah and other Jewish holidays. It’s amazing to have a Jewish community on campus. I have made some of my closest friends and formed deep connections with my professors which I will continue to foster throughout my four years. I love Bowdoin's small campus and living in Maine. The train in town makes everything easily accessible and has allowed me to explore Brunswick's surrounding towns. I am so grateful for MVYouth and their commitment to my Bowdoin education. The support paved the way for me to pursue my love of physics and music and the many opportunities Bowdoin provides. Reflecting on my first semester, it has exceeded my expectations. I am excited for the spring semester and so grateful for the generosity and support that MVYouth continues to provide.

Maggie Bernard - Northeastern University

This fall semester was my freshman year at Northeastern University. I was selected to be part of their international program so instead of spending my first semester here in Boston I spent it in Paris, France. I attended American University of Paris in partnership with Northeastern global support staff that traveled with us and stayed during our duration of the stay in France. I am an undecided major that is hoping to double major in Psychology and Human Services in order to get the same equivalent to a Social Work major. While in Paris I took four classes: Paris through its Museums, Painting, Gender Studies, and First Year Writing. While in France I had a very good educational experience. My schedule was very balanced which allowed me ample time to complete my assignments as well as explore the places and culture around me, both immediately and farther away. While in France I explored mostly all the arrondissements whether that was through a museum or a sunday flea market. I also visited other places such as England, Scotland and different parts of Italy through both school opportunities and with friends. My favorite memory from the fall semester was the opportunity to visit and explore Venice Italy with my art professor. He and his wife have a house in Venice so they very easily immersed me and the other students into the local culture. We got the chance to learn about the craft of glass blowing and creation, he walked us all around and taught us about the architecture. I had always wanted to go to Venice and that trip was definitely a bucket list experience. Overall the fall semester taught me alot about myself as an individual and confirmed that I do have enough independence to move overseas and thrive there both educationally and as a person.

Eloise Christy - Middlebury College

My first fall semester at Middlebury College was an eye-opening and joyful experience. Throughout this semester, the staff and students were all so welcoming and I never felt that I was alone once, which is something that I’m really grateful for. Our freshman orientation week at the beginning of the semester was very impactful because I made some of my best friends during it. During this fall, I started up my Track & Field practices with my team which I had been really looking forward to. The team was so welcoming to the freshman and I felt accepted right away. Everyone was coming back from the summer and we all supported each other as we got back up to where we wanted to be for our upcoming Indoor Track season. I am so excited to be able to continue to get to know my teammates and to compete on such a supportive team. This semester I also took four classes that were quite challenging and out of my comfort zone. These included 19th Century British Literature, an Introduction to Pre-Modern World Architecture, an Introduction to Political Philosophy, and my freshman seminar, A Culinary History of Italy. Some of these classes were things I loved, like the literature class, but the others were subjects I knew nothing about. I ended up loving my architecture class and learning so much about the history of our world in terms of the many different types of architecture. However, my political philosophy class ended up being very difficult and extremely out of my comfort zone. In the end, I was glad that I took it because I learned so much about the basis of politics and discovered that maybe I could use this class to find where my interests lie. A lot of people worry about missing their homes and families when going away to college, but once you immerse yourself in the environment and people around you, for me at least, I didn’t feel as alone. I just want to thank MVYouth for giving me this incredible opportunity to explore my interests and learn at a school that I’ve dreamed of attending. The support MVYouth gave me was so needed and much appreciated.

Madeleine Bengstton - Smith College

My first semester at Smith College was incredible! Northampton is perfect because it’s far enough away yet simultaneously close enough to home. It’s a lovely tourist town that reminds me of the Vineyard charm, and with the PVTA bus I can easily travel to see high school friends at nearby schools. Smith has a beautiful campus, a rigorous women’s college learning environment and many traditions. Among these traditions, I enjoyed my first “Mountain Day” with new friends, baking and having a picnic on the hill by the pond. I enjoyed “Cromwell Day”, where I partook in social and racial justice workshops. Whether it’s one of these big events, or the weekly Smith House Tea, this school allows for wellness, bonding and important conversations. I love the many opportunities at Smith. Being a music and performance enthusiast, I joined the Glee Club choir, singing at semester concerts like “Autumn Serenade” and “Christmas Vespers”, but also special occasions like the Inauguration of Smith College’s 12th president, Sarah Willie-LeBreton. I look forward to auditioning for the spring musical, “Grease”, and continuing with the yearbook club, where I’ve made flyers and worked on outreach. My fall classes and professors were also fantastic. I plan on double majoring in Spanish and Education, so I took “Contemporary Cultures in the Spanish Speaking World” and “Intro to American Education”, but also other interesting classes like a studio art “Drawing Social Justice”, through the open curriculum. I’m excited for next semester’s schedule. With the support of MVYouth I’m able to pursue my further education at a welcoming institution, where I’m meeting amazing people and joining classes and clubs that strengthen my knowledge, leadership and passions. Without them, the process would be much more difficult. I’m so thankful to be from an island with such a generous community.

Zephyrine Thompson - George Washington University

This year brought some exciting changes and new chances to make the most of my college experience. In the spring I braved my Econ course requirements (and came out on top!), took a fascinating class on French crime writing, and continued my Global Health studies. My global mental health course was taught by two incredible women from the National Institute of Mental Health. Through their connections, we welcomed over 10 guest speakers from organizations such as the NIMH, United Nations, and World Health Organization. We heard about their research in the field, simulated case studies based on their experiences, and talked through the process of implementing health policy when it demands international cooperation. With the promise of warmer weather I also rejoined GW’s club lacrosse team, and had so much fun getting outside and immersing myself back into the sport. My school requires that we live on campus for 3 years, but as Fall 2023 saw the beginning of my senior year I was finally able to move into an apartment. While the dorms will always hold a special place in my heart, living in an apartment building has brought a sense of calm and “adultness” that is quite nice! I was able to bring my keyboard and some other instruments from home (and a framed map of the Vineyard, of course), and I found that the ability to create a space of my own has brought a refreshing sense of personal growth. I also joined a new theater group, GW Shakespeare, for their production of The Winter’s Tale. It was such a wonderful and dedicated community to be a part of, and solidified my belief that Shakespeare nerds actually make life more fun. Winter’s Tale was truly a highlight of 2023; as such, I thought it only appropriate to use my character portrait as this year’s photo! I know that 2024 will bring more new chances and exciting things, and as always, I am endlessly grateful to MVYouth for the chance to experience them.

Stephany Ribeiro - Southern New Hampshire University

Completing the fall courses has been an incredible culmination of my academic journey, especially as I wrap up the last courses for my concentration after conquering all the requirements for my minor in criminal justice. The array of courses I've immersed myself in has been both eye-opening and enriching, shaping my comprehension of the complexities within these intertwined fields. From delving into the "Sociology of Crime and Violence" to dissecting the intricacies of the "U.S. Judicial System" and exploring the critical dimensions of "Discretion in Criminal Justice," each course has been a stepping stone toward a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate web that defines the world of law and justice. Currently engrossed in "Adolescent Development" and "Disorders of Child/Adolescents," these courses have been particularly fulfilling, aligning perfectly with my passion for understanding the psychological intricacies of young minds. These insights have been invaluable as I work toward my psychology degree with a concentration in child and adolescent development, complemented by a minor in criminal justice. Knowing I'll graduate in 2024 is an exhilarating prospect, a testament to the dedication and hard work that has gone into this journey. This achievement is incredibly meaningful to me, made possible by the support of MVYouth scholarship that has been instrumental in realizing this dream. Four years of balancing a full-time job with full-time online studies at SNHU have been challenging, but they've also been incredibly rewarding. As I reflect on this journey, I'm immensely proud of how far I've come and feel prepared for the next chapter post-graduation. Looking forward, my aspirations extend beyond earning a bachelor's degree. I'm fueled by the ambition to pursue a master's degree, driven by the passion and commitment that have guided me thus far. These years have been a testament to dedication, and they've only fueled my hunger for more knowledge and deeper exploration in the field I'm passionate about.

Alex Rego - Dartmouth College

Oh, how the time has flown! I excitedly look forward to my June 2024 graduation from Dartmouth College, when I will walk away from Hanover, New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography and Government. I am spending the remainder of my senior year relishing in my friendships and exciting coursework, while also welcoming the independence and newness of postgraduate life. I am learning to navigate the most uncertainty I have encountered in my 22 years, and I have found this process to be net-positive! This past year, I had the opportunity to study abroad for the second time in my undergraduate career, this time focusing on climate science and climate justice affairs in San Francisco, Morocco, Nepal, and Ecuador with the International Honors Program. I also spent the summer interning in San Francisco at the Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corporation, where I wrote a People’s History of the Tenderloin neighborhood to advocate for housing justice and related social justice initiatives. The climate crisis (the focus of my study abroad program) and the housing/cost-of-living crisis (the focus of my summer internship) are felt acutely on Martha’s Vineyard, and have guided my academic and career trajectories. I plan to take this learning back home in some (still to-be-determined) capacity. And, in the vein of Martha’s Vineyard being my north star, I need to once again extend a massive thank you to all involved in the work being done at MVYouth. I was without words receiving this scholarship, and I am without words still. Thank you for shaping my understanding of community in a way that I carry with me to educational institutions, to workplaces, and in my relationships. This degree is also yours. Best wishes for the new year!

Spencer Pogue - Columbia University

These past few months have gone by quickly, but I have accomplished a lot in them, and I look forward to soon reaching the finish line of my college education. At the start of the semester, I made a slight change in my course of study, switching my major from Biological Sciences to Neuroscience and Behavior because I have a lot of interest in cell therapies and drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. This change enabled me to take classes like Neurobiology, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Social Neuroscience and provided me with foundational knowledge covering a vast array of topics, ranging from sensory physiology to the neural basis of moral decision-making. I also took Organic Chemistry so that I could learn more about the chemical processes that drive the development of different pharmaceutical products used in medicine. Overall, my classes this semester were challenging, but the knowledge I gained made my efforts worth it. Outside of my courses, I continued my research with the International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Program at the Columbia University School of Public Health and submitted a research paper on trends in HIV testing utilization in Lesotho to a journal for publication. The review process will take many months, but hopefully, the paper will be published by this summer. I also made sure to leave some room for fun, so some of my favorite moments this semester were having a picnic with friends in Riverside Park, seeing a jazz show at Lincoln Center, and perusing the stalls of the Hester Street Fair with my sisters when they came to visit me. As for my post-graduate plans, I have begun searching for and applying to jobs in biotechnology, global health, and healthcare policy, and I have already started to interview with a few companies, mostly in Boston and San Francisco. I cannot express enough how much I appreciate MV outh for supporting my academic journey at Columbia and I hope that I will continue to represent the Martha’s Vineyard community well.

Jo Orr - Wagner University

This past year at Wagner College has been a whirlwind, but I’m halfway through my junior year. After taking off two years due to the pandemic and limited performance opportunities, I went back to Wagner College in the Fall of 2022. As a Music Studies major, most of my classes are music-based, and I’ve gotten to take some really fun courses this last semester, including Conducting and Orchestration. I’m looking forward to a Jazz Harmony class this spring, which will branch out from the typical music theory content. As well as music classes, I’ve also gotten to take a dance course every semester, so I’ve taken tap, jazz, and ballet. It’s been fun to explore all the different styles that make up musical theater. I’ve also taken some science classes, Astronomy 101 and Psychology 101 in the past year. I’ve continued to work on auditioning at school and have had several callbacks and audition processes, in person and online. Outside of school, I had a busy summer. I was so happy to return to the MV Playhouse’s outdoor amphitheater to play Sebastian in Twelfth Night. We were supposed to have a month-long run, but it was so popular it extended to five weeks. In August, I helped develop a new character at a workshop for a new play named Storyfied at the Playhouse. I also continued to work on-island. I’ve continued to advocate for transgender rights as more anti-trans laws are passed and we get closer to the election. I hope to try and educate people just by not hiding myself away. While personally, it was an emotionally taxing year, I’m extremely grateful that I got to go to college. It’s been a privilege to be able to do all this, and none of it would have been possible without MVYouth.