Sunday, January 10, 2010

Youths urged to follow dreams� Standard-Times


Youths urged to follow dreams Standard-Times:

"SAN ANGELO, Texas — Carlos Partida plans to exchange his West Texas lifestyle for big city dreams.

An aspiring artist, the 16-year-old Central High School junior hopes to move from his hometown of San Angelo to Southern California to pursue an education and career in art. First, though, Carlos plans to remain working and living at home for a couple of years after high school, until he has saved enough to start the next chapter of his life — living independently.

In the meantime, Carlos wants to improve a couple of his worst characteristics: being too timid and introverted.

Since becoming part of the city’s JOBStart youth program two years ago, Carlos has made leaps and bounds toward breaking out of his shell. As one of eight peer leaders this year, the once-timid teen is helping other youths acquire crucial skills to prepare them for the real world."