Generational Change
Doxa’s education and community programs started in 2007 and 2010, respectively. Students like Jesus and Martin, now both in college, have been part of Doxa for over 10 years. We can practically say that they’ve grown up with us. Throughout our decade-long time together, we’ve gotten to know them well and see how Doxa has influenced their lives. Stepping back and looking at the larger trajectory of their lives, they share some observations and words about their experiences.
Jesus started coming to Doxa when he was 10, he is now 20 and studying mechanical engineering at Tecnológico Nacional de México. When asked about expectations from his parents, he said that “both of my parents didn’t finish middle school. I’m thankful for how hard they’ve worked, but I definitely surprised them by going to college.” Jesus continued to say that his “dad works basic construction jobs and so to achieve an engineering degree is a huge advancement.”
When asked where he would be today without Doxa, Jesus answered that he doesn’t know. He says “I see a lot of my neighbors who end up on the streets or in addiction. I see them drop out of middle school or high school when things get tough. They make different choices than I do.”
Martin started coming to Doxa when he was 8, he is now 19. He is the first in his entire family to go to college and just started this year. Martin has a unique drive and vision towards the future. His goals include being independent, owning his own home, and caring for his mother. These goals are not common, especially in an area where people grow up with different priorities. I asked how he came up with these goals. Martin was quick to share how Doxa’s constant presence has molded and shown him what it means to grow up well. He names some of Doxa’s staff (Sabino, Flavio, and Ely), who have played outsized roles in mentoring and influencing his growth.
When talking with Jesus and Martin, they keep coming back to the idea that one’s environment matters. An environment where there are adults and mentors who are willing to show you, fight for you, talk with you, correct you, and walk with you over the long-term. And how important it is to have these influences apart from your parents.
Jazmin is the mother of two Doxa students and an active volunteer. She’s been involved for about the last 8 years. When asked why Doxa has had success with students like Jesus and Martin over the long run, she mentions three factors: moral commitment, eliminating excuses, and the importance of location. Jazmin shares that “moral commitment means staying late when a student is rebelling and still needs to finish their work, but also going above and beyond to appreciate them when they do well.”
Jazmin says that Doxa is great at eliminating excuses, as “many parents are experts at letting small inconveniences become justifications.” Examples include transportation, required materials, or flexibility with timing.
Finally, Jazmin talks about the importance of location by saying that “Doxa is located in our own neighborhood.” The logistics are easy and convenient; but it’s not just that, it’s that kids and parents will naturally be in relationship with their neighbors. They go to school together and grow up together.
Generational changes as described by Jesus and Martin are becoming more common. Levels of schooling, future goals, and decision-making are all being noticeably improved from one generation to another. It’s amazing to see how in just one generation, things can advance so much. As Martin says, “Doxa’s environment is how the world should function.”