Being independent can involve many steps, especially when wanting to be in charge. Certain aspects of one’s life can affect how everything ultimately pays off. With high efforts and motivation to succeed, Senior Amiya Worthey has trudged through the hardship of loss and tried to find her future. Worthey never gave up despite all of this and is now a successful early graduate of Northwest High School.
Worthey discovered a passion for hairstyling at a young age. She took much time to reflect on her future and what it might consist of, continuing to find new hobbies and interests. She also surrounded herself with supportive friends. Out of all her hobbies, hairstyling stood out the most.
“I discovered the genuine passion for hairstyling. Once I realized how much I enjoyed it, I began to take it seriously, and that decision has made a significant impact on my life as I am working to be a cosmetologist now,” said Worthey.
Beginning high school, Worthey was motivated to move far and succeed, being able to learn things from her classes to use in the future. Hardships began to spike when she found out about the death of her grandfather. It was crushing information for him, being such an impactful person towards Worthey.
“We often spoke about how proud he would be to watch me walk across the graduation stage, so his passing took a huge toll on me,” said Worthey. 
The loss was devastating, but she was able to shape a death into a lesson. Even though her grandfather is no longer present, she cherishes every moment she had with him and her current loved ones. She strives to use her experiences and adapt them to new surroundings.
“I eventually found strength in honoring his memory by pushing myself to be the best version I can be. I truly believe he would be proud of who I am today, and that belief continues to motivate me,” said Worthey.
Currently enrolled at the Jackson Area Career Center (JACC), working full time to learn about being a cosmetologist. Being the first in her family to pursue a cosmetology license, and has enjoyed the process of her new lifelong career.
“Each experience is a constant reminder of how much I truly enjoy helping people feel more confident in themselves and their appearance,” said Worthey.
Being able to work in cosmetology, Worthey has continued to motivate herself throughout the entire process. She has brought much success in her path to cosmetology, winning first place in a hair show and second place in nails at their cosmetology competition. Every moment spent with a client and moving on to the next has been a heartwarming experience. She has been a positive role model throughout high school, even at the time of a loss, and as she works. One of her teachers, Tiffany Adema who taught Senior Transitions, has a high regard towards Worthey.
“An individual who has grown a lot as a student the last four years. She has overcome a lot in life. It is really great to see her step in her own and make decisions for her future,” said Adema.
Finally, at the end of a long four years, graduation is just around the corner, and despite all of these hardships, Worthey has finally made peace with her choice and, coming up soon, will be walking across the stage and successfully achieve her high school diploma, advancing to the next step of her life: cosmetology.