Alyssa’s Graduation Speech

My Graduation Speech

When I first came to Liberty’s Kitchen, I admit I told myself that I wasn’t going to try to make any friends. I said I was going to get through it by just being quiet like always, but that didn’t work out because just a few weeks later the quiet Alyssa had vanished. I broke out of my shell and became more talkative. I opened my to bigger and better things. I grew the confidence and found my voice with the support Liberty’s Kitchen and my classmates. We all grew this tight connection. It was an amazing, positive experience and I appreciate all the people that made a positive impact on my life.

When I said I wouldn’t get attached to any one, I think it was a bit of a mistake, because the next thing I know, as if it was a dream, we all together as one and connected. I have met so many wonderful people at Liberty’s Kitchen, it’s almost like my second family. My classmates are my brothers and sisters, we’ve been through these last three months together. Even when times got tough we still stuck together and supported one another. I honestly believe that without you all I wouldn’t have made it. Every time I felt like I wanted to give up, there was always some one there telling me to look up because I have my whole life ahead of me and that I can do it.

My first day I thought to myself, “I will do this, I have a bright future ahead of me, I will not let the darkness overcome my light. I am an intelligent, mature young lady, and I can do anything I put my mind to. Anything I want in life, I’m going for it. I won’t give up because I know I can do it, no standards are too high for me. My goals continue to expand, along with my mind. This is my first step to achievement. I will succeed and be something in life. My future is bright and I cannot stress enough that no one can kill my light.”

And in that moment I knew I was committed and I couldn’t give up because I’d be letting the people that matter the most down and the people that helped me get to where I am today. I said I was going to graduate, and I did it. At Liberty’s Kitchen, I had so many first experiences, so many wonderful opportunities and now I know this was the best decision I have ever made and it taught me that if you want something in life, you have to go for it. Nothing is handed to you. You have to earn it. We worked for this and we deserve it.

I want to thank everyone who taught me something, so I thank the whole staff from the bottom of my heart, because so many people had a hand in helping me to become a better person. I am so proud of myself and my classmates, because – guess what? – WE MADE IT!!!