Beyond Acceptance: A Chance for Every Kid

When people talk about acceptance, they usually mean getting in. A letter. A score. A spot. A yes. I thought that once you got accepted, that was it.

Then I joined Attollo in 2024, the middle of my junior year right when I needed something to push me.

At the time, I was looking for direction and a sense of belonging. I felt stuck, like I was going through the motions but not really moving forward.

I thought Attollo was mostly about college prep and proving myself, checking boxes, building a resume, doing what I had to do.

But something shifted for me. There was a moment when I realized it was something more.

That moment was during a morn8ing session when we were playing a game, getting asked questions about who we were and what we've done. I remember sitting there, surrounded by people who were also figuring it out, and realizing I wasn’t alone.

During that moment, I felt seen. Like someone finally understood me not just for what I could achieve, but for who I was becoming and who I am now.

It stayed with me because it reminded me that I’m not doing this alone. That I have a community behind me. That I’m capable of more than I thought.

Beyond acceptance, I found support, belonging, and belief. Making new friends and gaining amazing mentors along the way who have had a significant impact on my life.

I saw this in myself when I kept showing up, even on the hard days. When I encouraged someone else who was struggling. When I spoke up and shared my story.

My Attollo mentors Emily, Mar, and Trinity showed me what comes after the “yes,” after the first door opens. They challenged me to expect more from myself and reminded me that I have something to offer.

Now, I see myself as someone who takes ownership of my future and lifts others as I climb.

To me, going beyond acceptance means the real achievement isn’t just getting in, it’s who you become once you’re there. It’s the habits you build and the future you choose on purpose.