By Luke Mawhirter
Mindy’s journey with Methodist Children’s Home began in 2008, when she was a sophomore in high school.
Her parents had emigrated from Vietnam but struggled to find stability with frequent moves in search of employment. This turbulent environment led Mindy’s mother to seek help from MCH.
“I already had cousins who were living at MCH,” Mindy said. “They have similar stories. Our families traveled and worked a lot, so there wasn’t much stability.”
At first, the idea of moving into a residential program was difficult for Mindy.
“I didn’t have a choice,” she said. “I wasn’t mad, and I understood why I was there. But I wanted to be at home with my family.”
It didn’t take long for Mindy to make the most of the opportunity, though.
“I decided to make my experience the best I could,” she said. “I believe my time there was better because of that mindset. MCH was such a blessing in disguise.”
Mindy lived on the MCH Waco campus and attended Waco High School until graduating in 2011. She has fond memories of running track and attending annual Christmas activities such as Carols and Candles, a special Christmas worship service at MCH.
After high school, Mindy enrolled in the Transition Services (TS) program and flourished with guidance from the TS team. The TS program helps former residents and children served through foster care make a successful transition to independent living and adjust to college or the workforce.
“Mindy is meticulous, professional and highly committed to her education,” said Taylor Lewis, TS case manager. “She has an unwavering focus on academic success.”
With help from MCH, Mindy completed a bachelor’s degree in science and public health from the University of Texas at Arlington.
“I always knew I wanted to learn more about serving others,” she said. “In Vietnamese culture, we are taught to take care of others. I find the benefits in thinking for the collective, instead of individually.”
In addition to her culture and upbringing, Mindy said MCH played a large role in helping her develop this mindset.
“Living at MCH, you have to work and communicate with others,” she said. “By developing those skills, you learn how to help serve others in the greater community, instead of just yourself.”
Today, Mindy is pursuing a master’s degree in finance through an advanced placement program at Texas A&M University–Victoria, an achievement reserved for top-performing students. The distinction allows her to complete accelerated eight-week courses, and she is on track to graduate this fall.
“Mindy is focused and driven, yet remains personable and grounded,” Lewis said. “She excels at balancing her academic responsibilities with her personal life, always bringing a positive attitude to the table.”
Mindy credits MCH, and the TS team specifically, for her continued growth and development.
“Programs like this are rare,” she said. “Anyone who is able, should take full advantage of it. I’ve gained so many skills that have benefited a lot of aspects of my life and allowed me to become a better version of myself.”
Mindy’s future is a bright one, full of promise — but she is focused on living a fulfilling and peaceful life.
“Stability, growth and balance,” Mindy said. “Those are the things most important to me.”
What an accomplished and wonderful young woman! It is such a blessing that MCH is continuing to offer residential care and support to children and teens. Thank you for sharing this story.