Faith Johnson - LACC Student Spotlight of the Week
From Foster Youth to Educator: Faith Johnson鈥檚 Journey
Faith Johnson, a child development major at Los Angeles City College (LACC), has overcome significant challenges to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. As a foster youth, Faith鈥檚 path hasn鈥檛 always been easy, but her determination to build a better future for herself and future generations is unwavering. 鈥淚 just want to make a difference for future generations, which is why I鈥檓 going into the field that I am in,鈥 she says.
Faith鈥檚 decision to attend LACC was inspired by the college鈥檚 outstanding child development program and its close proximity to her home, making it a convenient and affordable option. She鈥檚 also found a supportive and welcoming community on campus that she appreciates. 鈥淚 love that there鈥檚 always something to do here. Whether it鈥檚 workshops like the Mandala session or just meeting new people, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make new connections,鈥 she says.
As a student at LACC, Faith has worked diligently toward earning her AA and teacher certificate, which she is set to receive after the spring semester. She plans to transfer to a four-year university to earn her bachelor鈥檚 degree, continuing her educational journey in a way that will help her secure a successful career.
Beyond academics, Faith enjoys the small joys that campus life offers. One of her favorite things to do is visit the student store and check out the food trucks and vendors that set up on campus. "It鈥檚 more than just about food; it鈥檚 a way to get familiar with everything the school has to offer," she says.
Faith鈥檚 background as a foster youth is an essential part of her story. 鈥淚鈥檝e had to find my own way,鈥 she reflects, 鈥渁nd I鈥檓 grateful for the life I live now because it wasn鈥檛 always this way.鈥 Her journey to LACC began with the support of her social worker, who helped her navigate the application process. Despite the challenges she faced, she embraced the idea of starting at a community college. 鈥淚 chose community college first because it鈥檚 a more affordable way to get everything done before transferring to a four-year university,鈥 she explains.
Looking to the future, Faith aspires to become a teacher and build a life where she鈥檚 comfortable and financially stable. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 need to be rich,鈥 she says, 鈥淚 just want to be comfortable enough that I don鈥檛 have to live paycheck to paycheck.鈥 Above all, Faith hopes to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the children she will teach, ensuring that they have the support they need to thrive.
Faith Johnson鈥檚 story is one of resilience and ambition. Through her hard work and determination, she is paving the way for a bright future for herself and the generations of students she will inspire.
