After four years of hard work, I’m proud to share that I’ve graduated. Walking across the stage this past May was a moment of immense pride and gratitude. I felt proud to join the ranks of Howard University alumni in front of my friends and family, and deeply grateful for everyone who helped me reach this milestone. Over the summer, I worked as a youth development professional at the Martha’s Vineyard Boys and Girls Club, a place that has shaped me profoundly. With these past seven summers, I’ve met and learned from so many amazing people, and together, each summer, we gave kids a safe and enriching space to grow. My experience at the MVBGC taught me how to look beyond myself and recognize the importance of contributing positively to the community. I look back on my time at MVBGC with fondness and appreciation for the role it played in my life. I’m excited about the amazing upcoming changes happening there, and look forward to seeing its continued impact. Currently, I’m working as a Family Support Worker with the Island Wide Youth Collaborative, part of Martha’s Vineyard Community Services. In this role, I connect individuals and families with essential resources like housing, healthcare, employment, education, and other community supports. Though I’ve only been here a few months, I’m incredibly grateful for my team, who have guided and supported me as I transition from being a student to a full-time professional. Their mentorship has eased any uncertainty I had about starting my career, and I genuinely look forward to going to work each day. Even after finishing my undergraduate degree, I find myself learning and growing daily. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next. I hope to continue paying forward the support that MVYouth has given me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you MVYouth, for supporting me every step of the way.