Alexandra Devers was placed into the foster care system when she was just three months old. By the time she was four years old, she had lived in 10 foster and group homes. Finally, at age 13, she was welcomed into a permanent foster home by a woman she now calls Mom. Her mom, her 6th grade teacher-mentor, and a judge, aka her A Team, kept Alexandra grounded. They taught her that while she cant always change her circumstances, she can change her attitude and move forward.

Alexandra has applied the same attitude to her current position as an intern for the Citys Office of Child and Youth Success, working with executive director Andrea OHara. In her role, Alexandra is working on the Child and Youth Masterplan, learning about fiscal mapping and creating programs.

Ive been on the receiving end but not on the giving end before, Alexandra said.

Alexandra is a currently student at Mesa College, majoring in child development. So far, she says the biggest challenge in her internship role has been dealing with imposter syndrome. She also says being on CalFresh, having low-income housing and caring for a mom who is a senior citizen is also challenging. However, since shes started the program, shes been met with support and resources to help her succeed.

Andrea is very supportive, and I like that were focusing on low-income families, housing, childcare, and early childhood development.

Alexandra says the best part of interning, so far, is how friendly and welcoming the people are. She is currently working toward getting her degree and potentially running a home day care in the future.

I know the kind of life I deserve and that I want, stated Alexandra. I want to be able to take care of a family, and to do that I need to continue to work and get past adversity.

Undoubtedly, Alexandras perseverance and resilience are traits that allow her to be successful not just in her internship, but also as she forges her future.