Day 2: Reunited

NYC College Tour

Today in New York was once again a successful day like yesterday and we represented EOYDC   like always. People were interested to know what our organization was about and what we did. First, we went to Good Morning America. We are the first E.O.Y.D.C youth leaders since they have moved their studio audience set upstairs. This is our first time being on National TV with Good Morning America not including Ms. Regina. We got to take a picture with the Hall of Famer himself, GMA Anchor, Michael Strahan. He told us that he wished he had a program such as Pathway to College to help him get to college when he was younger which shows how much Pathway To College can affect others.

After we took a tour of the studio we headed out to the United States Mission to the United Nations (USUN). Millie Myers introduced us to the diplomats, their names were Julie and Tashana.  They were very welcoming and talked to us about both being first generation college students. They also talked about what they do in their positions. They shared about their ups and downs in getting into their position. The most important part about being at the USUN was being able to talk to people around the globe who have different values and experiences. They have to negotiate and being able to talk things out with others in order to get what they want especially with written agreements. Next, we went to a sustainable fashion store called Urban Zen established by fashion icon, Donna Karan. Urban Zen uses all aspects of life around the globe to express the artistic experience of those who are not able to because they may have little access to resource and production platforms. We learned most about their work in Haiti because they have an emphasis there and EOYDC students will head there soon for a service mission. Haiti is the poorest place in the western hemisphere. We were toured by the self- proclaimed “Haiti Girl” Margo Isadora.  She talked about how amazing it is to help produce such beautiful pieces of art for sale and ensure that the artisans are able to benefit as well. We received a gift bag which featured a Heart for Haiti. The store space was warm, beautiful and full of hope!

Next, we went to NYU and we talked to EOYDC  alumni, Dominique Drakeford.  She talked about her experience of her transition from Oakland to New York and being alone and having no one to socialize with. What stood out most from her talk was the notion of being comfortable being uncomfortable. College and independence are new concepts and we must embrace them. She is very happy and learned a new skill set which has helped her in her entrepreneurial venture as a sustainable fashion consultant. Lastly, we went to Juniors Restaurant (famous for their cheesecake) and has a fantastic time reconnecting with Dominque, her sister Jazmyn, another EOYDC alumni and her boyfriend Tim, a successful photographer. The quote of the day is “You will get a million no’s but that one yes, that is what matters”.

–Roxana Perez & Quinton Reynolds