Student of the Month - April 2009 |
Life is Short, so Live Tall |  My name is Jesse, and I am 16 years old. I am from Racine County and have been at Rawhide for three months. My favorite things to do include playing basketball and football, break dancing, and listening to music. I really enjoy work rotation/community service projects with the job trainers; they’re a major encouragement and fun to be around. Continuing my education to get a degree in criminal justice is part of my future plan. I also hope to join the Marines and, eventually, have a family of my own.
The Smith Home (one of the youth homes at Rawhide) is where I’ve been living; it’s been a great experience. I enjoy going to the gym with Mr. Gary Winston (resident instructor) when we cadets get our weekend privileges. I also like participating in Building Spiritual Muscle with Major Abe Auer. We get to know each other and learn more about God. I gave my life to Christ on December 16, 2008, at Mr. Winston’s Bible study.
Another good feature about Rawhide is the staff, especially resident instructors, houseparents, and Colonel Jeff Stump. They’ve been a big encouragement in my life. I’ve never had a father, but Pops Ed Dedmon (Housefather in the Smith Home) has been an awesome father figure in my life. He taught me about leadership, discipline, good manners, good self-esteem, and encouragement. Rawhide is a blessing for all young men who come, and it has changed my life in many ways.
I’ve also enjoyed participating in sports at Starr Academy, like basketball and track. Coaches CJ Behnke, Andy Schroeder, Scott Wilson, and Natalie Sarazin are all great motivators. They’ve taught me a lot, both physically and mentally. It’s all mental toughness—anything can be achieved as long as you put your mind to it.
I set my standards high and was determined to achieve the rank of Corporal, and I did it! “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
~Jesse |
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