Gissel Uriostigue was a bright, high-achieving student until the COVID-19 pandemic upended her life. Her parents’ separation and family struggles left her caring for younger siblings while battling anxiety and trauma. Disconnected and overwhelmed, Gissel began skipping school during her freshman and sophomore years. After a traumatic event led to her temporary separation from her mother, she moved in with her grandmother, where healing slowly began. At Hillside High School, supportive staff recognized her potential and helped her focus on her mental health and education. With encouragement and extra support, Gissel rediscovered her love of learning, set achievable goals, and steadily met them. Now graduating and applying to community college, she embodies resilience and the power of renewed hope.