Joshua Leavitt's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of second chances. Despite growing up as a second-generation Filipino American in a predominantly white rural town in Streator, IL, and facing numerous challenges, Leavitt's hard work and perseverance have paid off.
Leavitt's journey hasn't been easy. He was diagnosed with ADHD in second grade and struggled with behavioral issues and learning difficulties. He was bullied for looking different and being a minority, which led him to fall in with the wrong crowd. This resulted in teenage drug and alcohol use and arrests for petty theft, vandalism, and suspected drug dealing.
Leavitt's academic and behavioral problems continued into high school. He received multiple out-of-school suspensions and was recommended for expulsion in his freshman year. To avoid expulsion, he moved to Lemoore, CA, to live with his father. His problems persisted, however, and he continued getting into trouble with the law.
Leavitt managed to graduate high school but, shortly after, found himself in a difficult situation. He had disagreements with his father, moved out, and became homeless. He felt like he had let his parents down, who had come to America for a better life and made many sacrifices for him.
“I had a lot of misplaced anger and shame for what I put my parents through,” said Leavitt. “That part of my life was difficult. I couch-surfed and even slept in the public plaza in town.”
Despite these hardships, Leavitt didn't give up on himself. He found work as a sushi chef and was able to secure housing. During this time, he began to consider returning to school. He knew many of his former classmates from Lemoore High School had gone on to attend West Hills College Lemoore, and he felt like he could get a second chance at education there.
Starting at West Hills College Lemoore was challenging for Leavitt. He had to overcome the past mistakes he made in high school. He found support and encouragement from the faculty and staff, making his college transition easier.
“West Hills College Lemoore gave me my second chance,” said Leavitt. “They are a beacon of hope for people like me. Staff and faculty at WHCL are so accepting, and their goal is for all students to succeed."
Along the way, Leavitt has found mentors who have helped him grow and develop his skills. He currently works with West Hills College Lemoore Math Instructor Jay Thomas as a supplemental math instruction leader. This experience has helped Leavitt hone his teaching skills, which he hopes to use to help others.
"Joshua is an exceptional student who has worked incredibly hard to get where he is today," said West Hills College Lemoore Math Instructor Jay Thomas. "I am proud of everything he has achieved and excited to see where his future takes him."
Leavitt is also the project manager of the Engineering the Future Club at West Hills College Lemoore, where he has been able to apply his engineering skills and work on projects that have real-world applications.
Leavitt's determination and hard work paid off, especially in his science and math classes. He discovered an interest in thermal fluids and the principles of heat transfer and is now focused on pursuing a career in mechanical engineering. Leavitt's aptitude for science is serving him well, and he is now graduating this semester with a 4.0 GPA.
"Josh is one of the top engineering students at WHCL," says West Hills College Lemoore Engineering and Physics instructor Jiaxin Zhao. "I am so glad he ended up at WHCL and turned his life around. He is a testament that hard work and dedication can help you achieve anything you want."
Despite his success, Leavitt remains humble and grateful for the opportunities he has been given. He says, "Transferring to a 4-year university is a big deal for me. I feel like I've failed too many times in life already. Now is my time to succeed. West Hills gave me that confidence.”
Leavitt's story is a testament to the power of second chances and the importance of a supportive educational environment. Leavitt never gave up on his dreams despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks. He persevered, worked hard, and took advantage of the opportunities that came his way. His success proves that anyone can achieve their goals with hard work and determination, no matter how difficult the road may be.
