Josh Brandy, 25, Hollywood Arts' Student 2nd quarter

Hi my name is Josh, and I am the black sheep of my family. I was raised into a dysfunctional family, which consisted of unhealthy relationships due to the drug use that my father participated in. After my mother divorced my biological father because of his drug use she remarried to a very wealthy man by the name of Bob. Further more my mother and her newfound husband Bob started off fresh with a new family.

            I have had many trials and tribulations throughout High School to the present that I have over come without the assistance of my family. About three months ago today there was a presentation held at a treatment facility by the name of Royal Palms. I attended the presentation not knowing what it had in store for me. Two weeks after the presentation I started attending classes. Instantly my journey began at the nonprofit organization Hollywood Arts.

 They offered many classes that captured my attention. Those class were Digital Recording ran out of Garage Band and Pro tools, next up was Photography followed by Journalism/Writing and last but not least Fashion and Make Up. I loved Hollywood Media & Arts first and foremost because they offered education for the less fortunate and the problem child and young adult.

 My first day of attending classes I noticed almost everyone that was attending classes was different in many ways; from personalities, sexual preference, beliefs and up brings. I finally found a safe haven where I felt comfortable and was able to put my defense mechanisms down so I could learn. 

 Now I am enrolled in all of the classes with the exception off the Fashion and Make-Up classes.  I've found myself wanting to learn new skills that contributes to furthering my education. Everyday I learn something new, it gives me the feeling of accomplishment. The main reason why Hollywood Arts is available to myself  and the other participating students is because of the the donations  from open minded organization and busynesses that  are able to contribute to a very good and productive cause.             

 The journalism and writing class have stolen my attention. Mainly because they have taught me how to unscramble my thoughts feelings and, organize them so I am able to transfer them on to paper. To me that skill is priceless.

 Since I have been attending classes I have made a conscious decision to further my education by attending class at a City College. My goal is to somehow earn a scholarship to a four year University for Journalism. Before I started attending class I didn't have the slightest idea of  what profession I wanted to pursue as far as my career was concerned. The teachers and staff at Hollywood Arts has met and over exceed my needs. They have directed me and pushed me to succeed. But most of all instilled faith and hope into me.        

 To conclude I know that all of the students appreciate and look forward to attending the class each and every day. Besides the education curriculum, Hollywood Arts provides opportunities to the once lost teenager and young adult. They have also taught me how to stay persistent, disciplined, focused and patient.