Bemilly Troncoso

Bemilly recently graduated from ABCD University High School, an alternative diploma program. An enthusiastic young woman, she took advantage of every opportunity she could within the organization. Despite dropping out of high school for a year, she worked hard to make up the credits and graduate. "I was full of energy, ready to learn and make a positive change. University High helped me graduate with a diploma, get a job and enroll into college. This is my 'second home'".

Bemilly became pregnant when she was a sophomore in high school. Overwhelmed by her situation and not feeling like she was getting any help or support from her high school, she dropped out. She was out of school for over a year. Bemilly always planned to get her high school diploma but she did not feel comfortable going back to the school she had left. After looking for alternative programs online and making some phone calls, she eventually connected with University High located downtown.

She responded to the small classes that provided students more individualized attention and the overall supportive environment, while also building strong personal relationships with the program staff. “I can go to any one of the staff if I have a problem”. Through University High, Bemilly connected with an after-school career exploration program in financial services at ABCD Career Explorations that emphasized work readiness preparation in addition to industry exposure. This prepared her to successfully complete a paid summer internship at the corporate offices of Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad. Such interconnected programs open doors to opportunity and have helped Bemilly find her path towards success.

It has been incredibly challenging returning to school with a young son. At times, Bemilly has felt overwhelmed by all the changes in such a short period of time—new responsibilities, new school, new job. She hopes for greater stability moving forward as she continues her path into postsecondary education and employment. She is motivated by her son and the hard work has paid off since she was able to graduate with her class in 2007, an accomplishment that gives her great pride.

Bemilly is currently attending Roxbury Community College (RCC) through the ARISE program (a collaboration between ABCD, RCC and Boston Medical Center) and will earn a Medical Office Administration certificate by the end of the year. Her goal is to become a nurse. Her message to other teen mothers is that you “can still make it, even though you have responsibilities. There are a lot of groups out there [to provide support], so take advantage. People just don’t know.”

For futher information about University High School and other youth development programs at ABCD, visit www.bostonabcd.org.