Moody's YP Teens prepare to transition into adulthood

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Greg Nash
  • 23d Wing/Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Moody's Youth Programs and the Family Advocacy Clinic held a seminar for teenagers seeking guidance on how to transition into adulthood, Feb. 20, here.

The Teens Preparing for the Real World seminar encouraged teens to focus on being prepared for life after high school and finding their life's purpose.

According to U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Andres Ortiz, 23d Logistics Readiness Squadron logistics planner, making tough decisions can help teens navigate around certain obstacles during the transition into adult life.

"Becoming an adult mean making a lot of hard, life-changing decisions," said Ortiz. "It can be scary but these challenges will prepare you to face adversity. You're entering the stage where you have to rely on yourself primarily and become more independent."

The seminar was designed to give the teens a blueprint on being independent and how to craft a path to accomplishing their dreams. Guest speakers suggested that attendees plan and prioritize school and career goals to attain them in a timely manner.

Guest speakers consisting of past participants in the MYP and base personnel shared their challenges and stories of how their lives as independent adults have been successful thus far. Several members credited their commitment to seeking higher education for being the solid foundation of their success.

"Education is an essential building block in whatever career you want to pursue," said Russell Mitchell, 23d Force Support Squadron education guidance counselor. "Education is the key to success whether you want to pursue college or the military. You can't really prepare for your future without committing to complete some sort of education."

Mitchell mentioned that talking to high school counselors, knowing admission requirements, and taking entry level college aptitude tests is important to building your foundation for seeking higher education.

"Take advantage now and talk to whoever can help assist you towards your career goals," said Mitchell. "Your plan can change but figuring out what's important to you and what you want to accomplish will help a lot. But always remember, no matter what you do, you must prepare."

According to Lawanna Barron, 23d Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy outreach manager, even though there'll be challenges that will force teens to make decisions, take calculated risks, and use smart problem-solving skills; it will be worth it in setting a positive example.

"The community needs you all to set a great example for teens to follow in your footsteps," said Barron. "We're asking you to do something positive with your lives and blaze the trail. We've given you the tools to do so, now take the advantage and enjoy a bright future."

Barron says that it can be a difficult journey but positive decision-making and being proactive now can affect the rest of their lives as they transition into adulthood and pursue their life goals.