Incentives come Naturally

Seniors tell us what their "Whys" in life are and their understanding of HEC UB "Whys" are

Over this academic school year, the HEC Staff has talked and taught about empowerment, self-care, self-love, goals, responsibility, college and overcoming high

One thing that should be noted STUDENTS is once you do the right things; the good things or as we call them, incentives do come naturally.


Now, let's be real... Good things happen to bad people and bad things happen to good people. So, your incentive may not come right away. You may not see it for awhile, but that should not stop you from doing what is right.

Incentives do not always come in the form of a pizza party, free meal, a scholarship or even a "congratulations" from your parents. Often times we look to other people for a good job or for recognition. Start recognizing yourself. Start being proud of yourself. Start congratulating yourself. Stop looking for other people to do something for you.
Moral of the story, you will not always be recognized. You will not always be seen as the best. Recognition feels great. It is greatly needed to the human race. But the reality is it does not always happen. Do not ever allow that to stop you. You keep going and you keep striving down the right  path.Your life depends on you and not anyone else. Keep going.

Seniors were able to write on mirrors for a daily reminder of what their "Whys" and "Powers" are:

The Purpose of Me

If you had an opportunity to write a book about yourself what would it be titled?  What would your table of contents consist of? How would you describe your family? What would be the ending? How do you envision your retirement? What is the conclusion of your life?

Angel showing us how she visions her family

The seniors had an opportunity to write a mini book about themselves and what their life looks like and how they for see their future.

Ms. Nolan asked, "Why is this important?"
Senior, Amanda Watts, attends Cardinal Ritter,"I am taking psychology and we are learning that the family relationships that we have can affect our future. We learn a lot from our family."

Ke'Shaun showing off his drawing skills

There are many factors that can determine  our future. One thing Ms. Nolan pushes is to know yourself. Know yourself especially when entering a new environment and opportunity. Do not expect to have your life together by the age of 18. But know how to self- empower, self-advocate, self-love and step back and recharge yourself.

ATTENTION PARENTS 

We discussed asking a lot of questions whether your child is going to military, a four-year university, community college, tech school or whatever your child decides to do. Parents, everything is a business and they will sell you hopes and dreams. Sometimes, places and programs keep their word, other times we see that they said what they needed to say in order to grab your attention. Ask questions! If you are confused keep asking them to break it down. This is your child's future and ultimately your future!

Also, parents, please please please be an ear to your child. College is getting harder. It is becoming more stressful. We discussed as a group; that most of our students are not prepared for college. This can be for many reasons. When your students calls you crying about math; believe them. When they can not pass a class and they have done nothing;believe them. There is a struggle. Support them. send a candy bar. Be silly and most importantly love them and make sure that they know that. This is a journey where they will need you! But the most important thing is realizing this action can start now while your child is still under your roof and in high school.

Photo Fun 

Parents and Student getting to know each other

Ms. Nolan trying to speak on military services and giving advice to parents and students about making decisions

The Urban League held a  free event where students were able to receive free clothing

Alumni of Upward Bound  came back to speak to current students

Mr. Bullard speaking to Freshman at Carnahan High School

 

Reviewing Yourself

We all have thought that we had it together. However, double checking and making sure is not a bad idea. Ms. Donnie Harris came and spoke to the HEC seniors about having a timeline from this point until graduation. She went step by step of how the senior year should look.Under each section seniors put what they have done this is years so far.  Ms. Donnie Harris put it into great perspective about having a timeline and know when and where to do certain tasks. She also talked about if we have missed somethings, that it may not be too late. There are times when we can catch up on things while other times once we miss the opportunity, it is gone and we have to develop a new plan.



Students also viewed a video of a baby bear running away from a mountain lion that planned on eating the baby bear. The baby bear ran far and fast. The baby bear had a lot of different road blocks as well as almost came close to being touched and attacked by the mountain lion. As soon as the mountain lion got close to the baby bear and the baby bear thought it was over; he went to roar and when he did there was a bigger bear behind him. The mountain lion was scared and ran away. The point is keep persevering through your situation. Just when you thought you were alone there is always somewhere there to help you.

 Ms. Christina spoke with our HEC Upward Bound students about knowing you weaknesses and your strengths. Knowing yourself helps you to build relationships with other people and it helps you to have a great confidence in yourself. Ms. Christina continued with her lesson on power. We all have our own powers. We can combine our powers with one another. Whatever our weakness is that can be someone else's strength.  Knowing you will help you to be successful and will assist you to move forward in your obnoxious dreams.

Students discussing what support is and how it is important

Our group men discussing what trust is and why it is important

Mr. Bullard spoke with freshmen from Carnahan. He talked with them about how to prepare for life now for the future. There were examples about how to make a brand for yourself. Mr. Bullard went into detail about having obstacles and overcoming them.