Finding Your Way: Taylor Graduate’s Story of Perseverance and Purpose

At Success Virtual Learning Centers of Michigan, graduation represents more than earning a diploma—it symbolizes determination, second chances, and the power of support. For many students, the journey isn’t simple or straightforward. Yet with the right encouragement and resources, they find their way toward success.

At the Taylor Center, one 2025 graduate shared a deeply personal story of resilience and gratitude. Her words capture the heart of what Success stands for: the belief that every student has the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

---

Graduation Speech by Phoenix Wizinsky, Class of 2025 – Taylor Center

A year ago, I made the decision that graduating was unattainable for me. School was an obstacle far too big and impossible to overcome – so I gave up. I convinced myself that I would gain nothing from this. After all, it’s just a piece of paper. But this piece of paper emphasizes your ability to finish what you started and I was determined to show the world that I can achieve great things.

After countless hours, days, weeks, months, and years of unwavering dedication, patience, encouragement and attempted discipline from the beautiful, strong and driven leaders at Success, finally, I showed up one last time knowing it was my last chance at proving to myself and everyone around me that I am made for greatness.

Regardless of my stubbornness and inability to listen, the team at Success stood by my side and welcomed me back with open arms four times. I stand here today humbled and honored to be another great success story. Thank you to God who led me here, carried me through each season and led me in, through and out of this season. Thank you for being my strength when I was weak.

Thank you to Ms. Lynne, Ms. Rebekah, Ms. Corianne, Ms. Chelsea and all of my teachers for your patience, understanding, guidance, encouragement, and commitment to me and my future. Thank you to Bryan for cheering me on, hyping me up, sticking with me through my trials and tribulations, your patience, understanding and for loving me like no one has before. You all mean the world to me and I am so thankful for and to all of you.

---

Finding Your Way at Success

This graduate’s story is a reminder that persistence pays off and that every student deserves the chance to be seen, supported, and celebrated. Even when the journey is difficult, Success offers guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to keep moving forward.

At Success Virtual Learning Centers, we believe in every student’s potential to reach milestones once thought impossible. With patience, persistence, and support, students like this Taylor graduate prove that they can find their way—and in doing so, inspire others to do the same.