In 7th grade, Xymier embarked on a journey that would shape his future in ways he never anticipated.
The promise of new experiences and a tight-knit community of peers was what initially drew Xymier to Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP). His mother, who worked at LPP when Xymier was young, was also a strong influence on his decision to join.
“Even if she wasn’t a counselor, with the opportunities and things that we provide as a program, I think it would be foolish for any student who has the opportunity to join to pass up,” he said.
But he soon found that joining LPP was like stepping into a world of opportunities beyond what he imagined. LPP has been integral to his life ever since, guiding him through middle school, high school, and now into college.
Xymier is currently studying psychology at Hartwick College, where he also plays on the men’s basketball team. He returns to LPP during the summer to join the staff as an academic counselor, providing much of the same support and community that he received as a student in LPP.
“In the summer, I come back as an academic counselor and just help activate and engage the youth and help lead them to the right path,” he said.
Xymier is also one of the supervisors for the students’ impact project, which is focused on coordinating several events and other projects that support Universal Pre-K.
For Xymier, the sense of community in LPP was palpable from the beginning. It wasn't just about the academic support; it was about the network of friends and mentors who were always there. This peer support network provided a foundation of encouragement and motivation. It was through this network that he learned early on about the value of collaboration and mutual support.
LPP's role in Xymier’s life evolved as he grew older. In middle school, it was about emotional support and academic guidance. By high school, the focus shifted to college preparation and career readiness.
LPP was there to help Xymier apply to college, navigate financial aid, and manage relationships. As he prepared for the next steps of his academic journey, this guidance turned out to provide invaluable lessons.
One of the toughest lessons was the importance of the people you keep around you. Separating himself from people who were holding him back wasn’t always easy, especially at first. But, with support and guidance from LPP, he learned how to make smart decisions about who to spend time with.
There were many transformative opportunities for leadership within LPP.
As an ambassador, Xymier guided younger students by sharing his experiences and helping them navigate their own paths. His involvement even extended beyond the school year as he helped mentor young students in sports, particularly basketball. This mentoring wasn't just about the game; it was about life skills, perseverance, and transitioning from high school to college athletics.
One project that stands out to Xymier is the RAMP It Up initiative. He and his peers built a ramp for an individual who had been homebound for ten years. Witnessing their reaction was profound, and it served as a powerful reminder that our efforts can have life-changing impacts. This experience underscored the importance of service and the difference we can make in others' lives.
LPP's support was instrumental in Xymier’s academic success. He secured approximately $30,000 in scholarships from Binghamton High School, allowing him to choose a college that felt like home rather than being limited by financial constraints.
Xymier often tells other students to take advantage of all opportunities available to them, emphasizing the importance of applying oneself fully. The scholarships enabled him to focus on finding the right fit for his educational and personal growth.
On a personal level, LPP also helped Xymier build strong relationships and navigate social dynamics. Working as summer staff for LPP further refined his leadership and communication skills. Transitioning from peer to leader taught him the importance of professional communication and responsibility.
One pivotal moment in Xymier’s life was helping a student who later thanked him for making a positive difference in their life. This reinforced his commitment to making an impact through his work and solidified his goal of pursuing a career in psychology.
His ultimate goal is to earn a Doctorate in Psychology and establish a private practice. In the meantime, Xymier plans to stay involved with LPP by volunteering his time and supporting future generations. He knows first-hand that alumni can act as powerful role models and mentors for younger students.
For current students, his advice is simple: seize every opportunity and be open to feedback. Often, the advice you don't want to hear is the most crucial. Xymier’s experiences at LPP have prepared him to face the future with confidence and resilience.
“The biggest lesson I think I’ve learned from LPP is that the relationships you build with people will take you to where you need to be,” he said. Relationships with teachers, counselors, and custodians alike have the potential to support you when you need it most.
If you're reading this and considering joining LPP, Xymier encourages you to jump in. It’s never too late to take advantage of the opportunities LPP offers. For him, LPP was more than just a program—it was a bridge to a brighter future.