Papine High's intern is inspired to pursue a degree in Respiratory Therapy

"If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou

These powerful words from Maya Angelou have served as a solid foundation for her path toward her objectives and aspirations. Role models like Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey have also presented this child with potential blueprints for pursuing her future aspirations.

Meet Alleya, a former Papine High School student who is now pursuing an associate degree in Allied Healthcare at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean Academy. She is in her final year of studies and plans to pursue a degree in respiratory therapy after finishing her current degree. Alleya, a person who cares about the environment, has volunteered her time since high school to help protect our ecosystem. She was involved in the 4-H club and her neighborhood group.

Alleya joined Dream Jamaica earlier this year. She has become a member of our internship cohort as a result of this introduction. She has effectively given herself the desire to continue her career by teaching herself how to sell herself, always having a plan B, and never settling for less. Despite hurdles, Dream Jamaica assisted her in understanding and "living in the now" while working towards her goals.

“Dream Jamaica has taught me that it was also okay to try new things.” Alleya expressed.

As a result of the various mentors and exposure she had as a member of the Internship Cohort, she was exposed to a wide range of possibilities and professional opportunities.

In the next five to ten years, she hopes to be a respiratory therapist and open her own healthcare clinic to cater to the needs of everyone that needs it. She also encourages anyone thinking about going to university and in need of assistance or resources for college applications or scholarships to join Dream Jamaica.