My name is Alexia Taylor, and I live in a small town outside of Nashville, Tennessee. I come from a single-mother household with two siblings, Cameron and Aubrey. My mom is one of the strongest women I know. Every day, I witness the sacrifices she makes to ensure my siblings and I have everything we need and want. Education has always been a priority in our family, especially with my grandparents, both educators, influencing our lives. My grandmother taught for 31 years, and my grandfather was a college professor and principal. Their dedication instilled in me the importance of a good education from a very young age.

Growing up in a single-parent household was challenging. My mother worked tirelessly, often putting her needs aside to ensure we were cared for. Despite her efforts, there were times when the financial strain became apparent, particularly when I compared my life to that of my friends. But my mother’s resilience and unwavering support always shone through. She volunteered at our church and in the community, setting an example of selflessness and dedication.

In second grade, she started volunteering at a non-profit organization that helps at-risk youth, and I accompanied her. This afterschool program became a second home to me. It was there that I first met Patrick Weaver in fifth grade. He spoke to me about boarding schools, painting a picture of opportunities I had never considered. The idea fascinated me, and I couldn’t stop talking about it to my friends and teachers.

For three years, I begged my mom to let me attend boarding school. During this time, I discovered my love for volleyball. It became my passion, and I spent countless hours practicing, dreaming of playing at a higher level. My mom, always supportive, made sure I had every opportunity to pursue my interests, despite our financial constraints. Finally, in eighth grade, after years of persistence, my mom agreed to let me try boarding school. It was a difficult decision for her, given everything that was happening at home. But she saw it as a chance for me to gain independence and receive a quality education. I wanted to ease her burden, allowing her to focus more on my younger siblings. The opportunity to attend Saint Andrew’s – Sewanee (SAS) was thanks to Springboard USA, it felt like a dream come true. It was a new beginning, a chance for me to forge my own path. Leaving home was bittersweet. I was excited about the new opportunities but heartbroken to leave my family, especially my mom. She had been my rock, and now I was stepping into the unknown. The first few weeks at SAS were tough. I missed home, my siblings, and my mom’s comforting presence. But I soon realized that this experience was a blessing in disguise. At SAS, I met people from different backgrounds and formed friendships that I cherish to this day. The school offered a nurturing environment where I could thrive academically and athletically. My coaches and teachers became my mentors, guiding me through challenges and helping me grow. I excelled in volleyball, earning a spot on the school team, and found joy in the sense of community.

Despite the distance, my mom remained my biggest supporter. She sent me letters filled with words of encouragement, reminding me of the strength I inherited from her. Her sacrifices had paved the way for my success, and I was determined to make her proud. Like many of my friends that I have met through Springboard USA, l faced unexpected challenges and had to adapt to new circumstances. All of us found strength in the support of our loved ones and the opportunities provided by Springboard USA. These experiences taught us resilience and the importance of a supportive community.

In our day-to-day lives, we encounter problems we cannot always predict or prepare for. But sometimes, the challenges we face lead us to opportunities we never imagined, and we find strength in the people who support us along the way. My journey has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the love of a family. The sacrifices made by my mom and the guidance of those around me have shaped who I am today, and for that, I am forever grateful.