Building Confidence and Community: Marcus P.

When Marcus P. was a rising junior in high school, he was invited to check out StepUp’s Real World Program by his friend. Eager to acquire business skills and intrigued by the positive things he had heard about the teen program, Marcus decided to give Real World a try.

That’s when he was introduced to a community of supportive staff, dedicated volunteers, and like-minded peers. This inclusive and welcoming environment made an impression on him.

“I quickly recognized there was a wealth of new opportunities available to me through the Real World Program.”

Among the program’s most profound impacts was its ability to help Marcus overcome his social anxiety.

“I had always felt uncomfortable speaking in front of groups, but with the program's support and lots of practice, I now speak with confidence.”

Marcus has proven to be a true community builder by setting his sights on engaging friends on his journey into the future. Marcus was inspired to share his experience with his circle of close-knit friends, believing that the program could open the same doors of opportunity.

Now, every Tuesday evening, Marcus brings a group of friends to the Real World.

“I have many interests, and the Real World has exposed me to lots of different career paths. Meeting different entrepreneurs through the program helped me realize that I can take my interests and turn them into a career. In the future, I hope to attend NC State University and study science.”