“I’ve learned that I’m not a bad person like I think I am.” – Samantha
One of the most damaging assumptions our students often face is being labeled as “bad kids” by their communities. At Josiah White’s, we see beyond behaviors on the surface and beyond the masks that can form through trauma to hide pain. We see a heart and a soul, and recognize that each student is chosen by God and here for a reason.
While choices do have consequences, one chapter does not define an entire story. Sometimes, it becomes the chapter that changes everything. Our role is to help students recognize their inner value and understand that they are worth the hard work it takes to embrace a second chance.
For many of our students, life experiences and trauma have deeply shaped how they view themselves. Self-perception and self-esteem can be impacted for years before a student ever arrives on campus. For some, Josiah White’s is the first place they hear consistent encouragement—and begin to believe in themselves and their God-given potential again, or for the first time.
That was true for Samantha.
During her time in the PATH program (Promoting Awareness, Thinking, & Healing), Samantha began discovering that self-respect and self-love are essential foundations for healing, growth, and future success.
Samantha faced significant challenges early in her adolescent years that made completing school—and even imagining a future—feel out of reach. School became increasingly difficult, and life circumstances eventually led her to step away from her education altogether. The loss of her infant son was a deeply painful experience, and coping with that grief became overwhelming.
Samantha shared that there was a time she never expected to make it to adulthood. Now, with her 18th birthday around the corner, she’s here—and she’s already graduated high school a month early, something she talked about with real pride.
While academic success mattered, Samantha’s growth went far deeper than credit recovery.
During her time at Josiah White’s, Samantha reconnected with God through the Spiritual Life program. Life experiences had previously shaped how she viewed God, but through support and reflection, she began to understand that God was not to blame for the hardships she endured. The spiritual healing that began became an important part of her journey forward.
Another area of growth for Samantha has been learning self-worth and self-compassion. With the support of staff—including her Family Teacher, Nikki—she learned that she deserves care, respect, and safety, especially from herself. This ongoing work reflects strength, courage, and trust.
Samantha also worked to overcome significant social anxiety. Through the Growing Teens for Life program, she participated in a student internship at the 50 East Garden Center. Initially, working with the public felt intimidating and overwhelming. With consistent encouragement and the guidance of vocational coaches, Samantha completed her internship actively helping customers and engaging with others.
This moment was pivotal. It restored confidence that had been absent for a long time and reminded her of her own capabilities.
“When we have purpose, when we are needed, it changes our attitude, there’s a drive to do better, be better” said Samantha’s Vocational Coach Megan.
What ultimately inspired Samantha to change was the realization that adulthood was approaching. She understood that future choices would carry greater responsibility and long-term impact. This awareness motivated her to work on emotional regulation, including managing anger, and make decisions aligned with the life she wants to build.
As she prepares to turn 18, Samantha’s goals are simple and meaningful: maintaining a clean record, securing a job, gaining independence, owning a car, and having her own apartment.
Her mindset shifted from surviving the moment to building a future.
Samantha describes Josiah White’s as “a second chance to grow and become a better person.” She encourages other students who may be coming to campus by saying, “Don’t think of this place as a punishment. Think of this place as a place to better yourself.”
For Samantha, success meant learning to love herself and believing she is deserving of respect. That inner transformation became visible as she began carrying herself with a confidence and hope she didn’t have before.
“I know my son would be proud of me,” Samantha shared.
