In Their Own Words.

Tanya Brathwaite: “Communities In Schools Is Like A Family”

Tanya is a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School and graduated in the top 5% of her class. In the Fall of 2008, she enrolled in the University of Houston majoring in Chemical Engineering.

“I can describe my experience while being part of CIS programs as being a member of a very loving family. Any question that I had someone was always there with a knowledgeable answer. It is reassuring to know when you need help there is a place you can go” said Brathwaite.

When Brathwaite was in high school she had many questions about what she was going to do with the rest of her life.

“The CIS staff reassured me that I could do whatever I wanted to do, but first I had to go to college. Not only did they just talk about it, CIS gave me the opportunity to visit colleges in Texas as well as some out of state (Clark in Atlanta, Tulane, Florida A & M)” added Brathwaite.

“The CIS staff gave me more than just a pat on the back, advice or words of encouragement. They shared experiences with me. They brought me places to expand my horizons and help me believe that I deserve the best.”

Brathwaite often thinks about how amazing it is to be born in the U.S. and given the opportunity to go after your deepest desires.

“Being involved in CIS has given me the self-confidence and encouragement to go after not what others want me to be but what I want to be,” said Brathwaite. “In this competitive society, it seems like the wealthy are getting richer as the poor will remain poor if they do not strive for an education. I choose not to settle for average.”

Brathwaite adds, “Living in Baytown, a place where 16% of the population lives in poverty, I’ve seen homeless people sleeping anywhere they can at night and hide the fact they are homeless during the day. I think about these things and they remind me of the importance of getting a good education.”

“CIS helps students see the possibilities no matter where they are starting from. The way the program help kids, just like they have helped me, is inspirational. I am truly thankful for all of the support an advice they have given me,” said Brathwaite.