A digital publication of Mindful Awareness Academy for Children
MAAC Scholar Rises from Doubt to Build Her Brand
When Lydia Jacob came to MAAC in 2019, she was uncertain about her future and whether college was even right for her. Today a sophomore at Guilford College, Lydia talks about her multifaceted educational goals and desire to help young girls like herself grow “inside and outside.”
How did MAAC help you grow?
MAAC helped me grow in college by giving me a sense of direction. Even though my mother works in education, due to some of my academic struggles, I often felt a lot of anxiety about what would be the best path for me in life, and whether college was even a space for me, because the classes are more challenging. I [also] felt lost being in a new town while facing the pressures around development as a student to fit college expectations.
When I started MAAC, I started to feel less anxious, having a leader like Ms. Andrea, who is easygoing and works with students based on their wants and needs. When starting my college essays, Ms. Andrea emphasized the importance of a personal narrative. I learned how to tell my story in a way that emphasizes my character without directly speaking about myself. Now, in college, this mindset has led me to start building my brand.
What kind of impact did MAAC have on your college experience?
[The experience] shaped my goals around the career path I want to follow in my major, psychology, and entrepreneurship minor. I want to go to cosmetology school and get my occupational therapy license and Psy.D to open a therapy studio/hair salon and offer a program for young girls 8 to 18 to learn about mental wellness, spirituality/relationship with God, and cosmetology skills. I want to start my own program teaching young girls how to take care of themselves on the inside and outside.
Also at MAAC, during mindfulness discussions, it was normalized that you will face some uncomfortable moments to grow, which I think has encouraged me to try new things like welding. I was scared going in, thinking it was going to be complicated, but I found that it was something I enjoy. Now I want to continue building that skill, as well.
Lydia is currently applying to internships and looking into cosmetology and trade schools, as well as doing community service on campus and at the United Methodist Church. She's also completing applications to transfer schools; her top choice being UNC Chapel Hill, where her mother, MAAC board member Nadine Verna, works as an associate director of career coaching.
To support MAAC's programs for promising scholars like Lydia, CLICK HERE!
MAAC After-School Program Brings Tech Studies to Life
High school scholars at Harmony House shelter in Newark and Turning Point shelter in Irvington enjoyed an immersive lesson in the world of STEM, brought to them by two educators-turned-entrepreneurs.
The scholars programmed Spheros—mini robots controlled via coding—to maneuver around the room to reach targets. While fun, the activity was actually part of a lesson on identifying career pathways.
"We heard a collective gasp of excitement when they unveiled the spheres that lit up," said MAAC executive director Andrea Smith-Morgan. "The students had the power to control the direction of the spheres based on their knowledge of college and career readiness."
The lesson was brought to MAAC by Chidi Iromuanya and Tiffany Robinson, who created STEM & Story to empower youth through creativity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning.
"It was an honor to share this time with the scholars as we explored career pathways, discussed the power of ELA and science skills, and planted seeds for their future success," said Chidi.
December's lesson was the second of eight monthly sessions designed especially for MAAC’s after-school program, which is made possible through a partnership with Essex Regional Educational Services Commission (ERESC).
All Four in School
There's a unique and profound joy in having my entire family in school at the same time, each of us pursuing our academic dreams at different levels.
My children, Kennedy and Cameron, are embarking on their undergraduate journeys, full of discovery and excitement as they lay the foundation for their futures. My husband, Paul, is delving deeper into his passion, earning a master's degree and honing expertise in his field. Meanwhile, yours truly is reaching the pinnacle of academic achievement, immersed in a PhD program.
Our shared experiences of late-night study sessions, exchanging ideas, and cheering each other on through challenges create an unparalleled sense of unity, joy, and inspiration. Much like MAAC, the Morgans become a collective testament to the power of education, resilience, and lifelong learning.
An Evening of Global Stories & Connection
Join us for the Traveling Diary Campfire on January 23 at 6:30 PM at The Crane House in Montclair, NJ. The intimate, candlelit event is hosted by Kyra Peralte, a fellow MAAC Villager and the founder of the Traveling Diary community.
Kyra began this global journey by sending the first diary to a stranger, sparking a movement that now connects women from over 30 countries. During this magical evening, she will share poignant and inspiring entries from these diaries, offering a glimpse into the shared experiences and dreams of women around the world.
Gather in the warm glow of candlelight throughout the historic Crane House for an evening of connection, storytelling, and mulled wine.
Reserve your spot here.
MAAC Board Members
Eleanor Gil-Kashiwabara | Tanya Isler-Home | Nadine Verna | Tamara Williams
Mindful Awareness Academy for Children (MAAC), PO BOX 338, Montclair, NJ 07042, United States
Comments