Tionna had always struggled in school. She struggled to pay attention, get her work done, and do the things expected of a student. Then she enrolled in the United Methodist Youth Home’s Day Education program. That’s when her idea of her future really started to change!

At UMYH, Tionna felt seen and understood. She felt comfortable talking with her instructors about tough subjects. She knew she was trusted to take breaks from class when she really needed it.

We asked Tionna a few questions about her experience in school & being a student (both before and after UMYH). Check out the following interview for a glimpse inside Tionna’s world and what she now has planned!

Q: What was it like before coming to UMYH?

A: “Before I came to UMYH, I was very distracted—by everything. I really struggled with paying attention in school, and that made it hard for me to picture ever graduating. I just figured it wouldn’t happen. I never liked school. Being in the classroom, the daily regimen, and everything that was expected of students was just too much. It was always a major challenge for me.”

Q: In what ways have the UMYH staff helped you that you appreciate or found beneficial?

A: “I didn’t used to like asking for help. I rarely, if ever, would ask for any kind of help or assistance. I don’t know why, I just didn’t feel comfortable doing it. I’ve always gotten easily distracted and had a short attention span. Those two things do not go along well with learning!

Bobby, one of my Day Ed instructors, has helped me immensely in working through these problems. And now, I don’t feel uncomfortable asking him for help. Anytime I’m feeling antsy or having trouble focusing in the classroom, Bobby lets me step outside to take a break. Sometimes you just need a moment to breathe, regroup, and ‘chill’ before you can come back and feel ready to learn. Also, MATH! He’s helped me more than I can say in that subject.”

Q: What were your goals before UMYH vs. now?

A: “Before I came to UMYH, I didn’t know at all what I wanted. I really never gave it much thought. I was just ‘going with the flow’ and riding the waves of life. Now, I have so many goals and aspirations for when I receive my GED! There are several vocational paths & careers I’m considering, including: joining the Air Force, becoming an entrepreneur, taking classes to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and acquiring a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which is required for several different jobs. Ivy Tech actually offers CDL courses—they teach you about the types of vehicles you’ll drive and how they operate, as well as provide the exam for certification.”

Q: What does earning your HS Equivalency and graduating from Day Education/UMYH mean to you?

A: “Honestly, it’s going to be like giving myself a huge pat on the back. I never thought I was going to make it to this point, but I did—I’m so proud of how far I’ve come!”

Q: Any other comments?

A: “My time at UMYH has really helped me put things into perspective, set big goals—goals I’m excited for—and to think about my future. Of course, I have to give credit where credit is due. I couldn’t have done it without many of the staff here, but specifically, I’m grateful for Chinn, Mrs. Tamara, and Bobby. Chinn has stayed on my tail and held me accountable, something I needed more than anything. Tamara has given me so much good, solid advice about life and the next steps in my future. And Bobby? Bobby has helped me so much in my education! He’s taught me so much, recognized when I need breaks, and has always given me the resources and tools I needed in class to do well. I couldn’t have gotten to this point without all of their help and support.”