Each month, Fostering Success Michigan features a Student Spotlight that celebrates the accomplishments and achievements of students with experience in foster care who are in one of 12 higher education support programs in Michigan. Do you know a student to spotlight?
We would love to hear from you!
June 2014 FSM Student Spotlight
Earlier this month we heard from Michael Heron, Life Skills Coach at the Fostering an Academic Success Transition (F.A.S.T.) program at Saginaw Valley State University. He shared with us the story of student and scholar, Jada D. about her successful Etsy store, and we asked her a few questions....Get to know Jada D.!
FSM: What drove you to start your Etsy store? How did you learn to make these wonderful creations?
JD: What drove me to create my Etsy Store was the fact that I am approaching the cut off age of 21 and I wanted to be financially stable. I also created an Etsy store because for years I had thought about selling my items, and decided that selling through Etsy would be very lo cost as Etsy doesn't charge a monthly bill like most web sites. I understood that having my own business would allow the most flexibility, and having a flexible job was always my ultimate goal. I learned to crochet 4 years ago when I was in a residential facility during my transition back into foster care for the second time. Once I had learned basic crocheting skills I was able to advance them by attempting to do other patters found on YouTube and the internet.
FSM: What do you hope to do after graduation? Do you have a specific area of passion?
JD: After graduation, I hope to expand my business big enough to where I can afford to hire an assistant or two. I would also like to sell some of my items to a few boutiques. My specific area of passion is business. Around a year after I graduate, I would like to go back to school to get my cosmetology license, and eventually open my own hair salon.
FSM: What can professionals do to better serve students with experience in foster care?
JD: Professionals can better serve students with experience in foster care by letting them know that they have options. I feel as though when a person knows that they have options, not only do they not feel trapped, they also do not settle or not live up to their full potential.
FSM: What advice do you have for students thinking about going to college?
JD: College is expensive. Consider doing your first two years at a community college, to eliminate debt and knock out general education classes. I would also advise having a strong head on your shoulders because college isn't easy, but more so because in college you will face new obstacles. Possibly ones that no one has informed you of. When it comes to college it is always best to expect the unexpected, as nothing always goes as planned, so if you're thinking about going to college, have several plans.
Click the link below to support Jada D. by purchasing one of her amazing creations!