At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, we believe that one consistent, caring adult can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. Abigail’s story is a powerful example of just that.
When Abigail first joined our School-to-Work program, she was navigating a difficult season. Between managing ADHD, mental health challenges, and the pressures of school, she often felt overwhelmed and unsure of what her future would hold. At one point, she wasn’t even certain she would graduate with her class. That began to change when she met her Big Sister, Aubrie.
From the start, their connection was strong. What began as a new and slightly nerve-wracking relationship quickly turned into a source of stability and encouragement. Aubrie showed up consistently, creating a safe space where Abigail felt supported, understood, and capable.
Aubrie helped Abigail build structure in her day-to-day life, from organizing her schedule to overcoming procrastination. They spent time working through school assignments, tackling scholarship applications, and exploring potential career paths. Aubrie even connected Abigail with professionals in fields she’s interested in, helping her see new possibilities for her future.
With that support and her own determination, Abigail began to thrive.
Today, she is on track to graduate this May, a milestone that once felt uncertain. Even more inspiring, she now has a clear vision for what comes next. Abigail plans to attend St. Petersburg College before transferring to the University of South Florida to pursue a degree in psychology.
Perhaps the biggest transformation, though, is her confidence. Where there was once doubt, there is now belief. Abigail feels empowered about her future and proud of how far she has come. Her journey is a testament to the impact of mentorship and the resilience of young people when given the right support.
If you’ve ever wondered if mentoring makes a difference, it does. Be part of a story like Abigail’s. Learn more about School-to-Work and take the first step to becoming a Big.
Chyanne Eaton, double majoring in Biomedical Science and Spanish at USF, is Co-President and Founder of Bulls for Brighter Futures. Chyanne felt that her time in the School-to-Work program as a Little was invaluable. As a high school student who planned to attend college, the School-to-Work program provided Chyanne with essential life skills. For instance, she learned how to navigate the college admissions process, establish and use credit, and combat implicit bias. Having a Big gave her someone to go to for advice or reassurance.
Nidhi Bangalore, double majoring in Biomedical Science and Psychology at USF, is the VP of Menteeship for Bulls for Brighter Futures. Connecting with her Big through the School-to-Work program helped her focus on her education while building interpersonal skills. She looks to her Big as a friend and teacher who truly has an impact on her life. She saw herself grow as a person during the two years she spent in the School-to-Work program. “Seeing how someone’s guidance and friendship can help another, I hoped to foster that same bond with the new mentors and mentees in our program,” Nidhi explained.
Littles from our school partners — Northeast High, Clearwater High, and Leto High — met with their Bigs at USAmeriBank, St. Pete-Clearwater Airport, and Nielsen for their final visits of the school year to celebrate their growth and success in our School-to-Work program. At each graduation ceremony, keynote speakers such as the Mayor of Oldsmar, Doug Bevis, and Pinellas County Administrator, Mark S. Woodard, were invited to talk to the Littles about their futures, inspiring the students with words of wisdom and well-wishes. At each graduation, two graduating seniors were awarded scholarships based on essays they had written about their futures and how the School-to-Work program has positively impacted their lives.
