Meet Your Neighbor: Angelica Carchi

"I remember being at Freshman orientation for QCH’s program at Newtown High School and thinking to myself, 'no one will notice me in this big school'. Little did I know the experience would expose me to new opportunities that I would never see myself in. Some experiences included attending Liberty Science Center in New Jersey to doing team building activities somewhere in Connecticut. Through each trip and group mentoring session, the thought of going unnoticed began to fade. 

Years later, I got to achieve one of my professional goals: working with students as a Counseling Specialist at QCH's YABC at HS for Arts and Business. I was able to utilize all my prior experiences to work with a population that often goes unnoticed. Within the year, I came to love building a community with my teammates. I found joy in counseling and watching students blossom into confident graduates. 

Now I am on a supervisory role as a QCH Program Director at Newtown High School, the school that I once attended. It often feels surreal to know that I am here again but in a different role. In the tough days, I think about all the barriers I overcame throughout my education and professional years. Supporting young adults means equipping students with lifelong skills that empower them to prevail learning barriers. As a first-generation college graduate, I have seen first-hand that a community outside my immediate family was vital for my journey.

During my time at QCH, I completed my one-year work anniversary and celebrated my one-year wedding anniversary. I also continue to have an active role serving youth in my local church, while preparing to become a first-time mom. Overall, reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for all the opportunities I have gotten to be a part of."

—Angelica Carchi, QCH Program Director at Newtown High School