School counselor Jordan Mann and sophomore Shaya King. "Mrs. Mann offered me academic guidance by setting realistic goals, assisted in developing effective study habits, and provided emotional support for days that I wasn’t feeling up to it," said King.
I met Mrs. Mann in John Adams Middle School during 7th grade.
During this stage of my life, I was immature. I skipped class. I didn’t pay attention. I goofed around. I didn’t care about grades, and I didn’t understand the importance of school. My thought process was just focused on the present. Things are different now.
“You definitely have a much higher maturity level,” Jordan Mann, my school counselor, told me in a recent conversation, “When you were in 7th grade, there was no convincing. Super stubborn.”
Middle school was a difficult time in my life as I was struggling with anxiety and a lack of motivation and self-confidence. I had several negative thoughts. I thought, “I’m not going to be good enough to graduate high school, and I will be homeless on the streets.” At least, that’s what some people in my life were telling me.
After talking to my friend Alyssa, I decided to meet with Mrs. Mann every week or so. Mann encouraged me to think positively and build my self-confidence.
“Confidence comes within you,” said Mann.
Mrs. Mann offered me academic guidance by setting realistic goals, assisted in developing effective study habits, and provided emotional support for days that I wasn’t feeling up to it.
Fast forward to freshman year. Mann was still a part of my life and fortunately had moved to the high school. I was still dealing with times of depression and anxiety. I was getting bullied online. My best friend turned on me and was harassing me online and in person. It was constant. I felt so vulnerable.
My mom realized that my mental health was declining. Though this was a tough time in my life, Mann was always there when I needed her, she made me feel not so alone.
Now, sophomore year, my mental health is exceptionally better. According to Mrs. Mann, “You have made incredible progress and growth.” I’ve tried new things that I would never have done before, I have a best friend who makes me feel good about myself. I’ve overcome a lot from 7th grade to my sophomore year, and I can’t help but be so grateful for Mrs. Mann being there for me and making me finally understand the importance of my life.
Mrs. Mann has inspired me to be a school counselor in the future. I hope that I can help someone like she has helped me. Mrs. Mann has changed my view on life and how I view others around me. Everyone needs someone in their life who they can talk to. Someone who makes you feel heard and seen. Don’t be afraid to reach out. You are important, and you are loved. You deserve a Mrs. Mann.