How YES Prep Helped a Dropout Student Find His Passion as a Graffiti Artist

TL;DR

Erick overcame difficulties, turned his life around, and found his passion for art and education at YES School.

Transcript

Erick: Well, my name is Erick Gonzalez, and I'm a Junior. >>Teacher: Like a self portrait, you might be able to submit a self portrait. >>Erick: If you want a brief overview, you know, sixth to the tenth grade, I was pretty much the example of what not to do at YES. >>Chad: It started off, it was pretty rough. >>Erick: Coming to this school, I di... Read More

Key Insights

• 😃 YES School provided an opportunity for Erick to transform his life and flourish academically and behaviorally.
• 🥰 Erick's passion for art became a means of self-expression and instilled a sense of belonging and community within the school.
• 🥰 Erick's dedication and talent in art led him to establish a scholarship fund for students, demonstrating his commitment to helping others pursue higher education.
• 🖐️ The story highlights the power of forgiveness, second chances, and the instrumental role teachers play in supporting students' personal growth and success.
• 🧑‍🎓 Erick's journey exemplifies how a student's passion and talent can be nurtured in an educational setting.
• 🥰 Art can be a significant outlet for students to express themselves, cope with challenges, and create positive change.
• 🧑‍🏭 The act of giving back and making a difference in one's community can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Erick's experience at YES School initially begin?

Erick had reservations about attending YES School, faced mockery from friends, and did everything he could to avoid going. He even got kicked out briefly.

Q: How did Erick turn his academic and behavioral situation around?

Erick realized his mistake and wrote a letter of apology to YES School, asking if he could come back. He made a significant effort to improve academically and behaviorally, earning the respect of his teachers and peers.

Q: How did Erick develop a passion for art and express himself?

Erick was influenced by a friend who drew tattoo and graffiti art, which inspired him to start creating murals. He used his artistic skills to convey messages of community, unity, and reflection on societal issues.

Q: How did Erick use his artwork to contribute to his school and community?

Erick painted a mural at YES School that symbolized unity and togetherness. He also worked on a music-themed mural to raise funds for a scholarship at the school, leaving a lasting impact on future students.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Erick struggled with behavior and academic challenges in middle school, even getting kicked out of YES School but managed to return and thrive.

• He discovered his love for art and used it to express himself and create a sense of community at the school through murals.

• Erick's artistic talent and dedication led him to initiate a scholarship fund to help other students pursue higher education.