The Challenges of Being a Homeless Student: A Personal Account

Homelessness and education are often seen as opposing concepts. However, for many individuals, including myself, being a student while homeless presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities that shape one's journey. In this article, I will share my personal experience as a homeless student, drawing from my upbringing in New Jersey and subsequent experiences in Alaska during my 14 to 30 years of age.

My First Experience: New Jersey

My first episode of homelessness started when I was 14 years old in New Jersey. Although it was a brief encounter, the lessons I learned back then have stayed with me. I recall the fear and uncertainty I felt that night. During that evening, I made my first purchase of weed, which turned into a significant journey of self-discovery and transition.

I remember feeling excited about my evening ride and the purpose of my nocturnal adventure. However, my mother's suspicion led to a pat-down that revealed the lump in my sock. As a lie was forced out of me, the reaction from my mother was swift. I left with a newfound determination to never return to the same situation. This experience marked the beginning of my journey into homelessness and underscored my determination to succeed as a student.

A Definite Choice: Alaska

Despite some initial reluctance, I willingly chose to become homeless in Alaska on Kodiak Island. This decision was partly driven by a desire for solitude and a need to explore the beautiful but harsh environment. During my time there, I faced numerous challenges, including limited resources and survival in extreme winter conditions.

Living on boats, in barns, and makeshift shelters, I learned to adapt to whatever was available. One particularly memorable night, I sought warmth around a wood stove, only to wake up choking on smoke. This incident highlighted the precariousness of my situation but also the resilience needed to endure. I often relied on school for warmth, shelter, and a sense of normalcy.

The Role of School

While being homeless posed many challenges, school became a sanctuary. It provided structure, a daily routine, and essential meals. I would spend every day trying to access the school, often using stringently enforced front doors and back entrances. The principal's kindness and acceptance were a source of immense relief. Over time, I managed to keep passing grades, which made my homeless life somewhat more manageable.

Despite the challenges, school offered a lifeline. I managed to find temporary shelter in abandoned houses and even spent a few weeks in one, but the distance from school made attending class irregular. Major turning points included being taken by the police from a local principal's home and my eventual placement in a foster care facility. The journey to Florida, then hospitalization with broken ribs, marked a significant setback but also highlights the constant struggle to stay safe and healthy.

Conclusion

Being a student while homeless is a complex and multifaceted experience. It requires resilience, adaptability, and sometimes a bit of luck. For me, school became both a challenge and a means to overcome the difficulties of homelessness. It provided a normalcy that was often hard to find, and it was a reminder that education is a powerful tool for personal growth and adversity.

Keywords: homeless student, challenges of homelessness, overcoming adversity