07.16.2020

Karizma Refines Lifelong Goal-Setting Skills as She Explores Future

By Trent Freeman, Director of Marketing & Communications

Karizma has thrived in her schoolwork during the pandemic.

“I’m not a very social person. At school, I didn’t have a group. I was very distant. I liked eating in the office and things like that, so definitely being away from people, it did me some good to kind of catch up with myself,” said Karizma, who will be a senior at Eisenhower High School this fall.

Still, even self-described introverts have limits.

“I never thought I would have to sit at home and wish to be at school,” she said with a laugh. “It is a little different.”

Before COVID-19, Karizma was making plans to shadow a dental hygienist as she investigates potential careers for her future. She likes the good hours and pay the job provides. The position also would allow her to be what she calls a “family person.”

“I didn’t grow up around family,” she said. “I would like to have days off to go to events with family.”

Setting and achieving clearly articulated goals has always been a key part of Karizma’s life.

“From a very young age, I promised myself that I would set goals and do my best to reach them,” Karizma said.

Last year, she started working with Ruby Zarate, a Graduation Success Coordinator at Treehouse. Ruby specializes in partnering with youth as they work toward graduation and make plans for life after high school. It’s been a perfect pairing.

“Having Ruby there to remind me and look out for me has definitely helped a lot as I look to my future,” Karizma said.

Since March, Treehouse has shifted from in-person meetings to remote strategies. The two have been staying in touch through frequent phone calls, texts and FaceTime.

“Scheduling things with Ruby makes my life feel more put together during this pandemic,” Karizma said. “Having little reminders—having that push—has really focused me.”

Overall, Karizma is a good student who has sometimes struggled in math and occasionally had issues turning in assignments on time. Just knowing Ruby cares has made a difference.

“It feels good to be acknowledged for trying,” Karizma said.

There is no question about Karizma’s dedication.

“She’s very motivated, very hard working and definitely strives for whatever she can reach,” Ruby said.

Karizma continues to refine her goal-setting abilities, and is thankful Ruby is there to partner with her. She looks forward to shadowing a dental hygienist as soon as it’s safe to do so.

“Treehouse, especially working with Ruby, has shown me that things are easier to put into action when you have somebody working with you,” Karizma said. “Having Ruby there really does help me a lot. I really do think Treehouse is amazing.”

Support Treehouse as we partner with youth in foster care to weather the pandemic. Make a gift at treehouseforkids.org/donate.

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