Gem U. Catama: I am so excited to expand my mission in life

It all started with the thought of how I can expand my mission in life...

It was conceptualized after a conversation with a participant in a seminar I attended in Las Vegas 3 years ago.  He was sharing how he, being a massage therapist, was able to help other people and make a difference. That thought lingered in my mind as I flew back to Chicago.

The seed planted had gained roots, and I thought of enrolling in a class and see if that would work with my current situation, working full time, being a part-time caregiver for my father, and some activities in church. I also thought about how I can afford to add another expense to what I currently have. How can I fit these classes in with my busy schedule?

That thought was translated into action when I took a bold step to enroll in one subject and see how it went. It wasn’t too bad. With the help of Lurana, she was able to put all the subjects that I would need in each semester. The journey wasn’t easy, balancing school, work, family, some social responsibilities, and changing some ME time to SCHOOL time. Nights have been long, and sleep has been short. Check my bank account, and it seems to be depleting.  I have asked myself in the middle of this journey if it’s worth it? I guess it's time to QUIT!

I am glad I did not listen to Mr. Quit and have listened to Mr. GO ON! The journey should have been short, but my situation took the long route! However, looking back at those years, WHOAAA! I am at the FINISH LINE!

The perceived roadblocks before and during this journey paved the way to becoming STEPPING BLOCKS!

As I looked at the FINISH LINE, I can’t believe that I have arrived at my destination- GRADUATION! 

I give credit to God, from who all strength and blessings flow to my family who have been supportive, friends who have been providing encouragement, and to all dedicated staff and teachers of the massage therapy department.

So next time you encounter roadblocks, use them as your stepping blocks to reach your goals! I am so excited to expand my mission in life using what I have acquired!

To the graduating class of 2025, Kudos to all of US!  We made it!!! 

Gem U Catama, '25

Crystal Lake, Illinois

Vocational Specialist Certificate-Massage Therapy