Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Devon Carter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Devon, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio. I eventually earned a basketball scholarship to attend Lehigh University. I got there and struggled, academically & socially. I almost lost my scholarship because of my grades and was challenged by my coach to improve. I decided to make the most of my opportunity in college because I honestly didn’t want to go back to Cleveland without a degree. I felt like I would get caught up in the wrong things just to survive, so I stayed in school as long as Lehigh was paying for it. I ended up realizing that my purpose was to figure out how to inspire our future leaders to understand the importance of education. After earning my PhD in Special Education, I decided to return to Ohio to make it my life’s mission to help students like me who needed to understand why they were in school and to take advantage of the opportunities that come with doing well in school. This is where the movement, Recognize Education And Learning (REAL) was developed and has become a nationally known program that spans across the country, from Los Angeles to Cleveland and many cities in between.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am currently a college professor at the University of Akron. My research involves using college mentors to make school “cool” for K-12 students as they facilitate the intervention program, Recognize Education And Learning. The goal is to improve attendance, graduation rates and behavior referrals at each district we work with across the country. This data should help the district achieve their goals and become a consistent yearly program that students can be a part of.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three qualities that were most impactful in my journey is perseverance, honesty and positivity. My advice is to understand that there will be obstacles in anything you do so choose to persistent through the obstacles and you will begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Just show up for what you believe in everyday.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My parents, Darnell and Leslie Carter, have supported my mission from day one. They see the significance in what I am trying to accomplish and their support is what continues to drive me to succeed to this day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://REALest2020.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recognizeeducationandlearning/
Image Credits
N/A
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