journey unfolds

By Nicole S

Change and moving around a lot isn't easy, especially far away, and senior high school student Trisha Bhay had to move all alone.

Bhay’s life started in Modesto, California. Her childhood was not the best but she made the most of it and doesn’t forget the good memories; “I remember coming home from school on the bus and seeing a 20ft tall jumper and felt so happy.”

After moving to San Jose, Bhay had to apply to school, jobs, and an apartment by herself. She said herself that she would’ve wished she had some support from her mom or someone but “life hits some people faster than others.”

Being only sixteen, she is very mature and independent. It's really inspiring to see Bhay do all of this stuff our parents do for us by herself. Applying for schools, jobs, and apartments, also just getting around to where she needs to be.

Bhay has a very supportive boyfriend who she loves and also supports. His family also supports Bhay a lot and inspired her to look for and pursue something she's passionate about. Her future also inspires her to be better and do better in general.

I’ve asked Bhay if she prefers her hometown or San Jose better, she said San Jose for her is healthier and better for her to live in. She has a lot more job opportunities here in San Jose, like being a veterinarian. Bhay likes animals and isn’t sure what career path she wants to take and being a vet is an option.

Bhay is happy she came to San Jose and is happy with her boyfriend and his family who support her with anything and everything. She’s in a better place mentally and physically; no one’s holding her back and her Christian community is a great place to go if she is struggling with something.

Now that Bhay has all the support she needs, is independent and does not have to worry about being held back and has a lot more freedom and opportunities, “Modesto is more like home. My family is here but San Jose is better and healthier for me. There's more schools and jobs.”