My name is Melanie. I am 19 years old and have been in DCF custody since I was 8. Before More Than Words, I was in high school and struggling to find a year round job that wasn’t just for the summer. I learned about MTW through my social worker who suggested I work there because I love to read. When I came in I was very shy. I didn’t consider myself a leader. I have learned to balance my own personal style with the flow of also being a leader to my peers. MTW has shown me the ins and outs of the business and shown me how to embrace customer service. This June I graduated from high school and currently I am a first year college student at Bridgewater State University. I am part of the Academic Support for College and Life program that provides additional support for foster care youth on campus. Through this program, they are helping me academically, socially, and financially through my first year of college and beyond. I am confident that through this program, I will be successful in earning my bachelor’s degree. More Than Words provides a great support system and an awesome team of staff who have helped me get where I am today and who will continue to support me throughout college.