As many of the learners from our Readiness Institute Summer Program know, our connection doesn’t just end after the summer. We continue to stay in touch with learners when they go back for their senior year, after they graduate high school, and beyond. We’ve been checking in with some of the young adults who were a part of program and have now graduated high school and are on to their next steps of adulthood.
Della Wagner
Where are you now?
I am currently at the University of Pittsburgh where I plan to declare myself a film studies major.
How has your life changed since the Readiness Institute?
Meeting the amazing people there was the best part of the Readiness Institute, in my opinion. I look fondly back at the memories made while visiting colleges. The staff were also amazing people who went and go above and beyond for the Readiness Institute participants.
How did the Readiness Institute help you prepare for where you are now?
Learning about the different colleges in the area, I was able to parse out what I was interested in and what I was not. There were also experiences that did not include colleges which opened my eyes to future careers. It was a thoroughly helpful experience.
What is your favorite memory of the Readiness Institute?
My favorite memory of the Readiness Institute was meeting up in the morning every day and talking to the friends I made!
What advice or message do you have for your fellow Readiness Institute alums?
If the place you are at feels stagnant, or not a right fit, it’s never too late to look at other options. Life is not set in stone, so feel free to live it how you see fit.