Bethany Weldon '20 Recruiting Profile

I am 17 years old and a resident of Beiber, California. I live with my father and stepmother, while my biological mother lives in Burney (about an hour away). I chose to move out of my mother's house before my freshman year.  At first I would visit her every other weekend until the spring when my mother got sick and couldn’t drive. She would have my brother pick me up when he had time. Unfortunately the relationship was very strained. After a while, she told me that she didn't want me there anymore and “kicked me out.” I stayed in Bieber and didn't visit Burney for a few months.  Once I got my driver’s license, I tried to repair the relationship. I honestly hoped my mother had changed. I went to see her, but she didn't welcome me back. Now I only see her on holidays; once every three months, she may text me. 

 Because of my experience, I would like to help people  get through similar situations in a more positive and healthy way. By becoming a family advocate, I believe I can do that. My family situation improved in March of 2011, when my dad remarried and moved in with my stepmother and her two children. Before I knew it, they were more like a family compared to what I had ever encountered. This “new” family supported me and made me feel welcome. I don’t think I would be where I am now if I hadn't gotten the courage to move out of my mother's house. After I moved, I could play sports, join clubs, and have friends.  Currently I play softball and volleyball. I also participate in clubs and student government. Additionally, I spend a lot of time with my friends and classmates. I never had the opportunity to participate in sports or be social while living in my mother’s home. And now I hope to further that passion in college.

My career goal is to become a family advocate. I chose this career because I love to help people.  I feel I could empathize with dysfunctional families in crisis. My experience helps me to understand what other families may be going through. My family is fractured and I know that it is different from many families, even ones in similar situations. Every family dynamic is unique and all parties cope with issues in different ways.  I believe any solution to issues should be as unique as the situation. As a family advocate, I would like to help family relationships heal, grow and prosper through education, empowerment and perseverance.