Antoine knows what he wants and works very hard to get it—probably harder than most. He just finished his high school diploma and immediately began coursework to get his Associate’s degree in Psychology, all while being incarcerated. He is determined to “commit, concentrate, and put forth the energy” into his education because when he knows what he wants, he goes for it: “I am the master of my choices and decisions.”

“I know what I want in life and I go for what I want. I am the master of my choices and decisions.”
-Antoine, ATC Client for six years

The most exciting part of studying psychology to Antoineis working with “communication and feelings.” His pursuit of this subject is also born from his love of helping people who are open to receiving help. In Antoine’s words, “I chose to pursue my AA in Psychology because I want to become a mentor, and an advocate, for individuals who have no voice, teens at risk, and adults who need help.” Antoine describes how his desire to help people is part of his nature. “I’m a giver, it’s what I do.” For him, it’s not only a topic of study, but a part of his daily life. In his friendships, he works to help people find themselves and shares what “positive wisdom” he can.

At The Crossroads has had the honor of working with Antoine for over six years. In that time, not only has he pursued his studies, but he has also created many different kinds of art. His favorite medium is poetry, but he also draws intricate pictures and portraits. For Antoine, making art is part of his self care. “Making art heals and relieves so much stress that the world throws my way.” Writing, drawing, and creating music makes him feel “free, connected, happy, and focused.”

Even though Antoine works hard and stays positive, he says that when roadblocks start to surface, he turns to At The Crossroads to stay “focused.” Through everything, Antoine says that “ATC has been the same supportive, caring, loving, assertive, empathetic, helpful, giving, fun, happy, resourceful, bunch of individuals.”

Here are just a two of Antoine’s many amazing drawings and a selection of his writing in his own words.