My name is Natalie and I will be attending LASA High School as a freshman this school year. Unfortunately, my middle school years have come to an end. While I am excited for High School, I can’t help but feel a bittersweet feeling as I reflect on the past 3 years. I am proud to say that Breakthrough was a part of those 3 middle school years, and will be for the next few years as well. These past summers have been some of the most life-changing summers of my life, and I would like to share my experience thus far to give you all some insight of my journey with this program.
The first time I heard about Breakthrough was in Elementary. I would hear my mom tell my older brother that it was time to wake up for Breakthrough, or ask him questions concerning the program. I didn’t understand what it was at first, and it was just a name to me. But I would tag along to events. Once I got to Middle School, I understood why my brother joined. In sixth grade, I remember my grade level being called into the cafeteria for a presentation. When I saw that it was Breakthrough presenting, I was excited. I was already familiar with what it was thanks to my brother, but the presentation made my understanding of it more clear. By the end of it, I was sold. The mission of this program was so inspiring to me, and I thought it would be beneficial for my future, so I, alongside some friends, signed up for the program.
My first summer at Breakthrough will always be my favorite and the most memorable. I remember mainly sticking alongside my friend since I didn’t know anyone there. I recognized a few of the older kids from my school, but back then the upperclassmen were scary to me. Initially, I found the whole thing a bit weird. I mean, cheers at 8:30 in the morning? I need at least ’till 10 AM to have that kind of energy. But as the days went on, I got used to it, and even memorized the cheers. Slowly, but surely, I opened up and grew to enjoy the year. I met some of my closest friends that summer, and met amazing teaching fellows who made me feel more confident in the upcoming school year.
Fast-forward to the summer of 7th grade. I was ecstatic to start another fun Breakthrough summer. Although I was upset that some of the AmeriCorps Summer Teaching Fellows from last year were not coming back, I was glad to have met the new ones, since they were just as cool. I made more awesome friends, and even overcame my initial fear of the older kids in my algebra class, where I would work alongside them. This year, I can definitely say I am one of the most energetic during morning attendance. I realized that being enthusiastic isn’t something to be embarrassed of, but something to be proud of. I feel like it helps the younger kids realize that it’s okay to shout and do the cheers.
It came to me that I was now considered one of the older kids, and from experience I realize the younger kids look up to those older than them. I want them to realize that it’s okay to be yourself, and if it means yelling as early as 8:30 in the morning for them to see, I’ll do it. I want to inspire the others to make the most of the summers, because they fly by really quickly. I am pleasantly surprised by my transformation from shy and awkward, to outgoing and less awkward than before. And it is thanks to all the amazing people I met throughout the years that I am who I am today.
Joining Breakthrough was definitely one of the best decisions I’ve made. Not only does it give a head start into what is expected of the next school year, but it provides a safe space where students and teaching fellows alike can discover themselves, connect through mutual interests, and express themselves.
I enjoy how no matter how unappealing a topic can be, the teachers find a way to make it fun and engaging for the students. From projects, to friendly competitions, I find myself and others actively participating. As I transition into High School, I look back and realize how supporting Breakthrough and everyone involved is. I know they will always have my back. I intend on taking on High School with a new-found confidence in my abilities thanks to everyone who has believed in me. While I understand it might not be the easiest journey, I know I’ll have my friends, advisors, and teaching fellows to support me, which makes the idea of a new environment and school less intimidating. I can’t wait to attend LASA and make new friends, more memories, and overall continue working my way up to become a first generation college graduate.
