Brianna Rodriguez knew right away that Liberty was a judgement-free zone.
After joining the program as a tenth grader at Binghamton High School, Brianna could tell that the Liberty atmosphere was different – more patient, accepting, and welcoming. There was even a cabinet in the Liberty classroom with free personal care items anyone could use.
“You felt wanted,” she said. “They hear you out and they also guide you on the right track.”
Another reassuring presence in the Liberty classroom was Autumn Clarke, senior counselor of social work and LPP’s primary counselor at Binghamton High School. She was known for being an excellent listener – making sure she understood students on both a personal and academic level.
“She listened to you as if she was your mother, as if she was your teacher. She was that person for a lot of people in the high school,” Brianna said. Almost 10 years later, Brianna still keeps up with her old counselor. “Miss Autumn was definitely one of my favorites.”
When it comes to favorite memories during her time in Liberty, Brianna can’t name just one.
Her first job at a Liberty summer program and the college tours she took with her class were both standout moments in her high school experience. She also remembered an event that she and her classmates put on to raise awareness for gun violence after another Liberty student passed away.
“Without Liberty, my high school experience wouldn’t have been what it was. And I loved my high school experience,” Brianna said.
As a junior and senior, Brianna began preparing for college and life after high school. Liberty was there to help, providing academic support whenever she needed it – from connecting her with a Spanish tutor to helping her pursue scholarships to study culinary arts.
After graduating from Monroe College in New York City, Brianna decided to move to South Carolina. It was a big move that made Brianna realize that she wanted to make another life change: switching careers. But she still wasn’t sure exactly what she wanted to do.
“That’s when I actually inboxed Miss Autumn,” she said.
After reconnecting with her former Liberty counselor, Brianna was inspired to go into the healthcare field. She went on to become a top 26 applicant out of 300 applicants to her radiology program. Now, she’s on track to receive her associates degree in radiology in May of 2028.
The lessons she learned from Liberty years ago still stick with her – giving her the confidence to navigate higher education and grow as a professional. Brianna still remembers learning how to network, interview, build her resume, and even give a good handshake as a Liberty student.
“They prepared me to be an adult and prepared me for the real world,” she said.