Our new YAN Spotlight series is an extension of our “Meet the Staff” series of posts where we follow up with our Youth Academic Navigators since the last time they were featured on the blog.
Our third post features Curtis Morgan, who started at the D2 Center in September, 2015. Read his original blog interview from 2016, and check out his update below.
How has the D2 Center changed since you first started working here?
The D2 Center has greatly expanded its services since I started working here and services students in even more ways.
What are the biggest challenges of being a D2 Center YAN?
Working with youth that face many obstacles and have limited support is always difficult. But those are the students that need the most help so I like working with them.
What would you consider your successes or your students’ successes at the D2 Center?
Anytime a student gets their diploma is a huge success! But just seeing students become more independent and learn to deal with issues on their own is the biggest accomplishment.
What are some different ways you have helped your students?
I help my students by meeting with them regularly at school or in the community. I assist them with any issues that may prevent them from being successful in school or life.
What words of wisdom do you share with your students?
The best advice I can give my students is to never give up hope and with proper support they can all reach their goals.
What have you learned from your students?
I have learned to always celebrate the small successes that we have in life. Sometimes your small successes will add up to great achievements over time.
How have you changed or what changes have happened in your life since our last interview?
I’m much more knowledgeable about resources for youth who are at risk for dropping out of school. I have also become more comfortable talking with students and parents about these resources and have become a valuable resource in this community for student re-engagement.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I really enjoy working with the students and community partners we have at the D2 Center and hope we continue to grow and impact more students.