Syese plans to attend St. Philip’s Community College
How have SAISD schools shaped you into the person you are today?
As a Cancer Survivor, Healy-Murphy welcomed me in during the lowest phase of my life, they created a learning environment that enhanced new growth and self development as a foundation for my life. During the process of attending school here, my perspective on life and my education has changed. I now know how to deal with obstacles the right way and not suppress or ignore them. They have taught me how to lead out of pure integrity and not out of my emotions. I’ve learned how to walk with people from all aspects of life and how to encourage them right where they are. Because of Healy Murphy I have a healthy perspective about myself and can plant that seed into the lives of others.
What is the greatest challenge you have overcome during your education so far and how did you overcome it?
The greatest challenge I had to overcome as a student was letting go of the expectations society pushes as to what success looks like. Upon arriving at Healy-Murphy I believed that my life was a failure because it didn’t attest to the straight line of success that many say is the only way. I’ve faced many obstacles and imperfections, but luckily I know now that “the traditional way is not the only way’. I had to unlearn the false expectations that other people had on my success and grab ahold of my life and implement the truth that has opened my eyes.
The two most influential people in my life are my mom and grandma. Throughout every season of life, even when I was fighting and battling cancer, my grandma was always there for me. I've always seen her lay down and sacrifice everything just for me to have the best. Even in her imperfections she has taught me that love bears all things. My mother is the strongest person I know, she has taught me how much God's grace, love and mercy never fails us despite our mistakes. No matter how messed up life may have been, I’ve always seen my mom take accountability and I’ve watched God heal a calcified heart. She reminds me everyday that God is willing and able, I just have to be ready.
As a leader of the class of 2023, what is your hope for the Class of 2023 as they move on to the next chapter of their lives?
As a student leader of the Class of 2023 I want nothing but the absolute best for my peers, teachers and staff. I hope that the Class of 2023 raises up into a powerful generation of young men and women who are whole within. I dream of a generation that doesn’t grow up into broken people with decrees and outward success but that their success and joy is rooted within and no one can take that from them. I hope they understand that they are worthy of every blessing and conquer through every trial placed before them.