Thea was asked to leave her mother’s home at 18 and did not have a stable place to go. After graduating from high school, she faced major challenges with housing and finances, making it difficult to continue her education. She also did not yet have the degree or training needed to earn enough income to support herself independently, but she never gave up. Despite these hardships, Thea has remained determined and hopeful. She continues working toward her goals and building a better future for herself. No matter how difficult her day may be, she always has kind words for others and shows appreciation and gratitude whenever she can. Thea has earned her phlebotomy certificate and hopes to begin working full-time as a phlebotomist after completing her externship and practicum. She is reliable, hardworking, and always willing to support others, even while facing challenges of her own. Thea is truly someone who believes in paying kindness forward.