Soriandy Sutman, the 2014 Fathoms princess, wrote the following as an essay to become a 2015 duchess.
By SORIANDY SUTMAN
Words can’t describe how much fulfillment and joy this organization has brought to me and others all around. Since starting as a contestant, I sought out to become an involved citizen and lend a helping hand to the community, but during the process I gained so much more knowledge of myself as well.
At the start of being in foster care, my standards were lowered, almost to ground level. Nothing, I felt, really suited me. As most of you well know I was involved in track and field, but what you didn’t know was even though I was surrounded by a vast majority of people frequently I felt alone and invisible as if no one knew me or even cared to take the time to know the soul inside the body. I was just living.
Since I’ve been a part of this program my self-esteem and confidence has risen past a majority of levels. Fathoms have a way of bringing individuals out of their comfort zone and helps encourage people out from inside. It makes people see the brighter side of situations. They can say, “I feel needed and people actually do like having my presence around.”
Fathoms are, accentually, another place someone could call home. My definition of home is a place my heart lies. The Fathoms organization is basically another family. Members are always welcoming and supportive. They truly care about the well-being of every member. There are ups and downs here and there, but we get stronger and the only way to do that is together.
No matter where we are faces light up in the sight of seeing respective young adults that will, one day, run the country. Fathoms are a symbol of hope. A hope that the world will become a better place and that people can be successful in what they put their hearts to. It shows that there are still people in the world that want to do good and make a difference instead of take everything for granted. Now I can say, “Instead of just living, I have lived.”
Let’s answer the question why I would be a good mentor. Well, to start off, I’m the type of person that will always try to make everyone feel welcome and I enjoy meeting others. I will be able to show the court that kindness and an open mind will take them far. Its very mind boggling for a person to try to describe them self, but looking deep inside I found that I was a hard worker and compassionate for others.
The situation I’m in is a good example of an underdog that strives. I have no problem helping others if it meant encouraging them to start conversations with others to being there for them at a time of need. I can show them that it is okay to branch off from the group and join others in conversation.
“People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing” — Dale Carnegie.
