YLA Experience
Today, I write before you as a proud 18-year-old student from Clark High School, full of gratitude and excitement. My journey with Youth Leadership Authority has been transformative, and I am honored to share a few thoughts about this amazing program.
One of the most important traits that has shaped my journey is being driven. From the very beginning, I set my goals high and committed myself to achieving them, no matter the obstacles that came my way. Whether the challenges were big or small, I never let them knock me down. This relentless drive has not only helped me grow but also inspired me to push beyond my limits and strive for excellence in everything I do.
Throughout my time with YLA, I’ve had the privilege of completing several programs at least three times with NO COST the classes, included The Retreat, Self-care Class, 10-week training, Community Service, The Conversation, The Constitution and the 10-day training at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. Each of these programs has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. However, the self-care class stood out the most because it taught me the importance of knowing myself, not beating myself up, and always overcoming challenges.
I would like to extend a special thanks to my sponsor, AC Pro, my Eagle team, the YLA team, our instructors, my family but especially my mom. Your support and guidance have been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful. Through these programs I learned the importance of togetherness and how to adapt to different situations. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that when you fail, you must always get back up. After graduation, I desire to be a United States Marine and I have already enlisted in the delayed entry program as a poolee. While I’m in the Marine Corps I will obtain a degree in Pediatric Medicine, Criminal Justice and Business Management. My inspirational word is growth because it signifies continuous improvement, learning from experiences, and becoming a better version of myself every day.
Classes and Opportunity
The self-care class has been more than just a lesson in mindfulness; it has been a journey of self-discovery. It taught me the importance of loving myself and appreciating the little things in life. From savoring a quiet moment to recognizing my own worth, I’ve come to realize that self-care is a powerful tool for inner peace and growth.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that change is okay. Life is ever-evolving, and embracing change allows us to grow into the best version of ourselves. This class has reminded me that letting go of fear and welcoming transformation can lead to greater fulfillment.
Finally, I’ve learned not to assume or judge someone’s situation. Everyone has their own battles, and sometimes, their struggles are invisible. Practicing empathy and kindness has opened my heart to deeper connections and understanding.
The self-care class wasn’t just a subject—it was a gift. It’s taught me to love myself, embrace change, and show compassion to others, making each day a little brighter.
The conversation class was a true eye-opener for me. It made me realize that not every smile is real, and sometimes people hide their struggles behind a mask of happiness. This understanding taught me an important lesson: it’s okay to not be okay. Life isn’t always easy, and acknowledging our emotions is a healthy and necessary part of growing up.
As we get older, the challenges we face often become more difficult. The struggles we experience can feel heavier, but they also shape us into stronger, more resilient individuals. This class helped me see that these hardships are a normal part of life and that it’s okay to take things one day at a time.
Through this experience, I’ve learned to approach others with more empathy and compassion. You never know what someone is going through behind their smile. The class reminded me that being kind to ourselves and others is essential, especially during tough times.
Conversation class wasn’t just about words; it was about understanding, growth, and connection. It taught me to embrace my feelings and face life’s struggles with courage and grace.
The Constitution class was an incredible experience that opened my eyes to the depth and importance of our rights. It wasn’t just about learning what the Constitution says—it was about understanding the meaning behind each right and how they shape our lives today.
Exploring these rights gave me a deeper appreciation for the freedoms we often take for granted. It was fascinating to see how the words written so long ago continue to protect and guide us in modern times. The class made me realize how powerful these rights are and how important it is to understand them fully.
This experience wasn’t just educational—it was inspiring. It showed me the value of being informed about our rights and responsibilities as citizens. The Constitution isn’t just a document; it’s a symbol of justice, freedom, and the principles that unite us all.
The Constitution class was more than amazing—it was empowering. It reminded me of the strength of our nation’s foundation and how every right carries a purpose and a story worth understanding.
The 10-week physical leadership program and Devil Pups encampment at USMC Base Camp Pendleton was absolutely AMAZING. It was a life-changing experience that pushed me beyond my limits and gave me a confidence I never thought I could have.
Through intense physical training and leadership exercises, I learned to embrace different leadership styles and understand the roles that make a team strong. Every morning, I woke up feeling stronger, knowing that if I could overcome an intense PT session, I could conquer any challenge life throws at me.
One of the most valuable lessons I took away was to be an Eagle, not a Falcon—to rise above, take initiative, and strive for excellence in everything I do. This program taught me the importance of being the best version of myself at all times, both mentally and physically.
The Youth Leadership Authority program wasn’t just about physical endurance; it was about resilience, leadership, and self-discovery. It shaped me into someone stronger, more confident, and ready to face life’s challenges head-on. I’ll carry these lessons with me forever.
My Awards and Last Remarks
Over the past three years, I’ve been fortunate to achieve milestones that reflect my dedication and growth. Academically, I’ve earned my associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, a testament to the value of hard work and perseverance. Among my proudest moments was being named Platoon Honor Pup out of 42 participants during the Devil Pups encampment, where I also held the significant role of guide—a key leadership position in the platoon.
As Head Eagle for two years, I mentored over 100 individuals, helping them become the best versions of themselves. Now, as the Emeritus Eagle, I oversee smooth operations among the eagles, ensuring we continue to embody our program’s core values: Honesty, Respect, Peace, Kindness, and Humility (H.R.P.K.H.).
The YLA and Devil Pups programs have been instrumental in my leadership journey. They prepared me to take on the position of guide bearer in NJROTC, leading to roles as Platoon Commander in my junior year and now Battalion Commander senior year. Through these experiences, I also earned 16 challenge coins, each symbolizing hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence.
These opportunities have shaped me into a confident leader, dedicated to serving and inspiring others while upholding the values that guide my journey. I’m grateful for these experiences and look forward to continuing to lead with purpose and integrity.
As we move forward from this milestone, I encourage each of you to embrace your own unique traits and stay driven towards your goals. Remember, it’s not just about reaching the destination but also about the resilience and determination you show along the way. Together, let’s continue to lead with passion, inspire others, and make a positive impact in our communities.
WE ARE STRONG. WE ARE POWERFUL. WE ARE LEADERS.