The impact of our Take Stock in Children mentoring program is best told through the students whose lives it helps transform. We recently had the opportunity to speak with a few of our incredible graduates. While each of these seniors has a unique story, together they reflect the heart of this program: mentorship, opportunity, and support to achieve their full potential.
Explore the senior stories below to learn how our Take Stock in Children mentoring program is helping students achieve their goals, pursue higher education, and build brighter futures.
Aleia: When a Dream Becomes a Reality
“I knew I wanted to leave Florida,” Aleia from Osceola Fundamental High said. “But it felt more like a dream than a reality. I knew I couldn’t really afford it.”
No one in Aleia’s family had ever gone to college. While she worked hard in school and imagined what the future could hold, the financial reality often made that dream feel out of reach.
Then came a phone call she will never forget.
Just before a midterm, her dad called with unexpected news. Aleia had been accepted to the University of Notre Dame with a full scholarship.
Her father was overwhelmed with pride. Growing up, he never had the opportunity to attend college himself, but he always wanted something different for his daughter.
“I always wanted to make my dad proud,” Aleia said. “I wanted all of his sacrifices to be worth it.”
When the news became official, the excitement spread through her family. At Christmas, it was all anyone could talk about. Aleia said the scholarship brought her father peace of mind. “I know it has taken a big weight off his shoulders,” she said.
Aleia has been part of our Take Stock in Children mentoring program since the seventh grade. During that time, she developed leadership skills and explored her interests while preparing for college.
She joined Future Business Leaders of America and eventually became the club’s vice president, strengthening her networking and public speaking skills. She also has a passion for music and joined chorus, proudly calling herself a “chorus nerd.”
“I was the weird kid that grew up watching Judge Judy,” she said with a laugh.
Aleia always knew she wanted to be a lawyer. With encouragement from teachers and mentors, she realized she could combine her love of music with law and pursue a career in entertainment law. At Notre Dame, she plans to study Strategic Management as she prepares for law school.
This opportunity has opened the door to experiences she only imagined. Aleia is excited to broaden her horizons, experience life in a new place, and take advantage of many opportunities college has to offer.
She credits the support she received along the way for helping her reach this moment. “Take Stock in Children has been such a helpful experience,” she said. “Everyone has been so encouraging. I am very grateful for everyone.”
As she prepares to begin her next chapter at the University of Notre Dame, Aleia carries with her the pride of her family and the support of those who helped her along the way.
Amarah: A Support System that Makes a Difference
Amarah, a senior, is dual-enrolled at Boca Ciega High for their medical program and at Pinellas Technical College, working toward her LPN. She will attend Bethune-Cookman University this fall as a pre-nursing major.
From the beginning, Amarah has been focused on one goal: going to college. Throughout high school, her mindset stayed focused on her academics. When she experienced a death in her family, her GPA dropped. Instead of letting that setback define her, Amarah pushed herself to improve and enrolled in all Advanced Placement and Honors courses. Her hard work drastically increased her GPA that year.
Amarah joined our Take Stock in Children mentoring program as a freshman, where the people around her strengthened her determination.
“I appreciate having a mentor to speak life into me whenever I was going through things or needed encouragement,” Amarah said. Her mentor helped her stay focused by sharing scholarship opportunities, college resources, and encouragement.
“My mentor is open-minded and willing to listen to me. Having someone like her in my corner has been helpful. She reminded me that there are people who care about my future and want me to succeed,” Amarah said.
Her AP Chemistry teacher also made a lasting impact during her junior year. Amarah noted, “She kept giving me extra support and telling me that I was capable. I did not feel capable, but I passed her class with A’s. She taught me to not give up when things get tough.”
As she looks ahead, she is excited to branch out, meet new people, and continue learning.
Amarah’s story is a reminder that when students are supported by mentors and educators who believe in them, they can overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Learn how to become a mentor and help provide the encouragement, guidance, and support that students like Amarah need to reach their goals.
Emily: A Moment that Changed Everything
A senior at Largo High, Emily has balanced it all. She maintained a 4.0 GPA in the Excel program, stayed active in school clubs, and worked 20 hours a week, all while preparing for her next step.
But her path to college was not always clear.
Emily faced uncertainty about whether higher education was even within reach. That changed when a teacher saw something in her that she had not fully seen in herself.
“He knew I was struggling with not knowing if I was able to go to college,” Emily said. “One day he handed me this paper and said I really think you’d benefit from this.”
That paper introduced her to our Take Stock in Children mentoring program, a moment she says she will never forget.
“I was so grateful for that day,” she said. “I don’t think that is a teacher that I will ever forget.”
Emily joined our program her freshman year. From that point on, she built relationships that helped shape her future.
“The Take Stock in Children program has been wonderful for me,” Emily said. “I have learned so many skills that are transferrable and I have gained so many relationships that I can take with me through life.”
Her mentors became an important part of that journey. One piece of advice has stayed with her.
“Always think outside the box,” she said. “If you think inside the box, you’ll never solve any of your challenges.”
With that mindset, Emily found her path. Through journalism, yearbook, and business courses, she discovered a passion for marketing and sales.
This summer she is heading to the University of South Florida to major in marketing with a minor in sales. Her goal is to one day take over her father’s business and grow it into something even bigger.
For Emily, this opportunity means more than just going to college.
“Without this scholarship, I wouldn’t have access to further my education and break the generational curse,” she said.
As she looks ahead, Emily is excited for everything college will bring. She is ready to build connections, experience campus life, and step into her independence.
You can help create opportunities for students like Emily. Support our Take Stock in Children mentoring program and provide the resources and relationships that help students reach their full potential.
James: From Finding his Place to Achieving his Goals
James, a senior at Northeast High, did not enjoy school at first. That began to change when he became more involved on campus and connected with mentors, teachers, and administrators who encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone.
With that support, school became a place where he felt motivated to grow. He began to take ownership of his goals and look for ways to challenge himself.
Balancing academics, leadership roles, work, and extracurricular activities, James learned how to manage his time and make intentional choices. He stayed focused on earning his high school diploma, maintaining his position in the Academy of Finance, and completing his Associate of Arts degree at St. Petersburg College.
“The Take Stock in Children program helped me with accountability,” James said. “All of my mentors and my college readiness coach have held me incredibly accountable. They push me to be successful and that is invaluable to me.”
His current mentor, Mr. Johnny Boykins, played an important role in shaping his perspective on leadership.
“He pushed me to hold myself accountable but also others. Letting others fall through ultimately reflects your leadership. His lessons have been everything,” James said.
Through these experiences, James developed a strong sense of responsibility and a passion for advocacy. He is committed to making a difference in his community, a goal that connects directly to his future.
This fall, he will attend the University of Florida as a pre-law major with plans to earn his doctorate and become a licensed attorney.
James’ story shows how support, accountability, and determination can help students grow into confident leaders and achieve their goals.
You can be that difference for a student. Become a mentor and help guide students, like James, as they navigate challenges, embrace opportunities, and achieve their ambitions.
Jaylen: Serving Others and Chasing her Dream
Jaylen is a senior at Boca Ciega High in the Center for Wellness and Medical Professions program and will graduate with her CNA certification. This summer, she will begin job training with the Army Reserves before starting at Albany State, where she plans to study psychology and criminal justice.
From a young age, Jaylen knew she wanted to be in the medical field. As she grew older, that interest evolved as she began to question why people commit crimes. That curiosity shaped her goal of becoming a Criminal Psychologist. She hopes to keep people safe, prevent crimes, and create change in her community.
Her decision to join the Army Reserves reflects that same commitment to serving others. Whether in uniform or in her future career, Jaylen is focused on protecting and supporting those around her.
Jaylen has been a part of our Take Stock in Children mentoring program since seventh grade. Along the way, she faced challenges in school, but she did not face them alone.
“My mentors have helped me a lot,” Jaylen said. “I used to struggle in school. They would give me tips and advice. I would vent to them and get their perspective to move forward.”
One mentor, who was with her for three years, became a consistent source of support. Jaylen shared that she was always there when she needed to talk, offering guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence when things felt overwhelming.
“Take Stock in Children is more than the money,” Jaylen said. “IT’s all about making sure you’re on the right path and everyone is supportive of your dreams and helping you get to the next level.”
That support helped Jaylen stay focused on her goals and continue moving forward. Now, she is looking ahead with excitement.
As she prepares for this next chapter, Jaylen is ready to gain independence, meet new people, and take on new experiences. From the Army Reserves to college, she is stepping into a future centered on service, growth, and making a difference.
You can help students like Jaylen take the next step toward their future. Support our Take Stock in Children mentoring program and provide opportunities that help students reach their goals.
Londyn: From First Classroom to State Capital
Londyn, a senior at Largo High, is one of six students in Florida selected as a Leaders4Life Fellow and is preparing to study biochemistry at the University of Florida. Her journey to this moment reflects years of perseverance, leadership and growth.
After attending middle school online, Londyn stepped into a traditional classroom for the first time as a freshman. Her family faced instability, including a brief period of homelessness when they moved in with her grandmother, and Londyn later became her caregiver.
“They were very difficult challenges, but I feel I am a better person because of those challenges. I feel as if I can take on anything now,” said Londyn.
Despite these obstacles, she quickly stood out. Londyn was named Freshman of the Year, a reflection of her determination and work ethic. Her principal shared, “She works hard. She is determined. She never lets anything get in the way of her goals.”
Her achievements and character led to her selection as a Leaders4Life Fellow, a prestigious program that provides a college scholarship, leadership training, mentoring, and personalized support. In January, she traveled to Tallahassee, where she was recognized and engaged with state leaders about the importance of education and mentorship.
“Thank you. I quite literally have no elaboration. I have never been given an opportunity like this ever,” Londyn said.
She credits our Take Stock in Children mentoring program for helping her build momentum toward college, along with support of her mentor and family. Her mentor of four years, Maryhelen Silverthorn, shared, “I have always admired her performance, her ability to get along with others, her leadership qualities, and her passion for giving back to the community.”
As she looks ahead, Londyn hopes to become a mentor herself, helping students like her achieve their dreams.
Her story is a reminder of the impact a strong support system can have on a student’s future. You can be a part of that impact. Become a mentor and help a student like Londyn reach their full potential.
These student success stories are possible because of the dedication of our Take Stock in Children mentors, supporters, and community partners who believe in every student’s potential. If you were inspired by these senior stories, there are many ways to get involved. You can become a mentor, support our program, or share the impact to inspire others to join us in building brighter futures.
