Never Forget Where You Came From

No matter how far you go in life, never forget where you came from. I was reminded of this after being invited to speak at the SUNY Brooklyn Educational Opportunity Center (BEOC) graduation ceremony this week. The BEOC provides tuition-free academic and career training to over 1600 eligible New York residents annually.

It was 16 years ago that I graduated from the same center after completing a course to upgrade my computer skills. Soon after that I was hired at the BEOC as an administrative assistant and was promoted to a career coach & workshop facilitator once graduating from Barnard Baruch College. I worked there for 5 years.

These were very humble beginnings. Before the blessing of the BEOC, I was in desperate need of a career transition, stability and hope for a brighter future. The BEOC provided me that in so many ways, helping to shape, mentor and prepare me to be the women I am today.

It’s pretty amazing that from those humble beginnings I had the opportunity to encourage the 2017 graduating class with a message to keep believing in, pursuing, and achieving their potential.

While on the stage looking upon the faces of the graduating class excited for their next step, I remembered more clearly my own story.

I recalled the hope I had for what would be. I thought of the obstacles in my way but also the dreams I had for the future.

Those memories tugged at my emotions and motivated me to deliver one hell of a speech.

Take this message as a gentle reminder that no matter how far you go in life, never forget where you came from. Your beginnings were and are the pathway to your future. Remember with great pride your past, the journey, and its ups and downs. Share it to inspire and help others, and let it be the driving force to get you to the place you want to be personally and professionally.

If you are interested in attending or making a referral to the BEOC click here to learn more.

All the Best,
Tirza