Quirky Girl Goes To Camp

I’m Adeline Phelps, currently a junior (16 years old), and here is my story. When I was born I was given a gift. I was unaware of what my gift was, until I grew older. Today, I am still exploring more about myself and the gift that I was given.

My gift has made me view the world differently. My gift has shaped my mind. It makes me see things from a new perspective. It is a part of who I am.

 
I don’t perceive my gift to be a bad thing at all. I am able to do many things others can’t, because of my gift. My strengths are being compassionate, imaginative, and insightful. I like taking care of animals. I put myself in other peoples’ shoes. I enjoy drawing, painting, playing guitar, and listening to music. I can observe seemingly small parts, put them together, and see the big picture. I see unwritten messages artists try to portray.

 

Many people when they look at me only see the tip of the iceberg. I physically look like a normal and well functioning human being, but deep down I have my struggles. Of course everyone faces his or her own obstacles, but for me specifically, I struggle academically and socially. It usually, takes me longer than others to complete a task or assignment.  I need some extra help on things that I can’t quite grasp. Also, I have a hard time meeting new people. I don’t know when it is a good time to push past my comfort zone, and say “hi.” I don’t know when is a good time to open up about myself to others.

 
I understand that I am different than others, and that I need a little extra support. I do not feel ready for the next milestone of my life because I can’t face things on my own, yet. That’s why I’m turning to Beyond Akeela.

 
Beyond Akeela is in Appleton, Wisconsin and takes place on the campus of Lawrence University. It has a college readiness program that is designed specifically for kids like me. I would love to take part in it. It would be a great opportunity since I want to strengthen my independence and maturity. This camp will teach the life skills I need to be successful in college emotionally, socially, and academically. However, the total camp cost is 6,850 US dollars, which is cost prohibitive for me. I am working to raise funds by babysitting, pet sitting, and selling some of my art work, but will still need some financial assistance to make it possible.

 

As a long-term goal, I plan on becoming a drama therapist. Why? Drama has been a great outlet for me.  It has taught me how to tap into my inner emotions and express them in real life situations.  I want to strive to help kids just like me to overcome their trials. I want to encourage people like me to push themselves through their own challenges.  I want them to know that they will get through it and that they will become successful. I do not believe that peoples’ obstacles are always a negative thing.  I want them to know that they can indeed be looked at positively. There is always the option to walk over them or steer around them, to look back and say, “I made it.” In order for me to reach my long-term goals, I need Beyond Akeela as a stepping-stone. Specifically, it will help me learn the skills I need to live on a university campus, and be successful in my future.

Beyond Akeela Webpage