By Felicia Sims, ILS Supervisor
Defining Perseverance
If you looked up “perseverance” in the dictionary, you’d find a definition about persistence and effort despite challenges—but if Compass had a dictionary, you’d find William’s photo right beside it. Since joining Compass in June 2025, William has embodied determination, hitting the ground running and embracing every opportunity to grow.
A Life Full of Purpose
Beyond his ILS journey, William is a busy student at CSU Sacramento, a passionate hiker, and a nature advocate. His caring and outgoing spirit shines through in everything he does, making it a joy to witness his progress and enthusiasm for learning new skills.
From Top Ramen to Homemade Apple Pies
One of William’s first goals was learning to cook simple, healthy meals—he didn’t want to be a “starving college student.” Despite having little kitchen experience and some hesitation around knives, he dove in with courage. His first big success? Making mini apple pies from scratch! He sliced apples, followed a recipe, managed timers, and proudly served dessert that night—mission accomplished.
Cooking Up Confidence
After that first win, William took things up a notch, choosing to make Taco Salad for the family. This meal required plenty of chopping, dicing, and cooking on the stovetop. He prepared everything—romaine, tomatoes, avocados, onions, cilantro, meat, and beans—by hand. With focus and care, he created a colorful, fresh dinner the whole family enjoyed.
A True Definition of Growth
Today, William feels confident in the kitchen, whether he’s slicing vegetables or preparing a full meal. No longer a spectator at dinnertime, he’s now an active contributor, proud of the independence and skills he’s gained. His journey reminds us that perseverance isn’t just about effort—it’s about believing in yourself long enough to see what’s possible.