Thriving Against the Odds: Ethan’s Path From Early Struggles To College Acceptance
Background
Ethan was born 13 weeks prematurely, weighing only 2 lbs 12 oz. His early life was marked by significant medical challenges, including a 5.5-month hospital stay, two blood transfusions, and one surgery. For the first 18 months of his life, Ethan required oxygen support. Despite these challenges, he’s grown into a resilient and determined young adult with responses from multiple colleges.
The Early Academic Journey
At the age of four, Ethan was diagnosed with High Functioning Autism and ADHD. However, despite an official diagnosis from a Stanford psychologist, the local school district determined that he was 'school ready' and did not require additional support. His mother, recognizing the need for accommodations, enrolled him in Merryhill School in Milpitas, CA. The private school welcomed Ethan and provided the necessary support, including notes, after-school hours, and tutoring.
Math proved to be the most challenging subject for Ethan. As he progressed, his mother sought additional tutoring support from professionals. A teacher recommended Carla Bayot from Swoon Tutoring, a tutoring service dedicated to helping students build confidence and improve their academic performance. Carla’s guidance proved invaluable, helping Ethan develop essential test-taking, note-taking, and study skills. Eventually, Ethan’s academic progress improved so much that tutoring was no longer needed.
Ethan—at the time, a student of Swoon Tutoring
The High School Challenge and Rediscovery of Swoon Learning
Years later, as a sophomore at Valley Christian High School, Ethan encountered new difficulties in Algebra 2. His current tutor was ineffective, and his grades suffered. During a visit to Merryhill School, his mother reconnected with Carla, who had since expanded her tutoring business into Swoon Learning, a business that now focuses not only on tutoring, but also activities, and life skills for students and student-athletes, and neurodivergent learners with ADHD. Remembering the positive impact Carla had on Ethan in the past, she decided to re-engage her services.
Carla’s patient and structured approach once again made a difference. Ethan recalled many of her note-taking and problem-solving techniques, allowing him to rebuild his confidence and improve his performance. Under Carla’s guidance, Ethan’s grades improved significantly—ending his second semester, which was expected to be more difficult than the first, with a B.
Ethan—now a student of Swoon Learning
Academic Growth and College Applications
In addition to math, Ethan received tutoring support for various high school courses, including Screenwriting, Statistics, and AP World History. Carla also provided invaluable assistance with his college application essays. As a result of his perseverance and the support he received, Ethan has already been accepted into several colleges, including San Jose State University (SJSU), San Francisco State University (SFSU), Cal State Fullerton, Cal State LA, and UC Riverside. He eagerly awaits additional responses.
Conclusion
Ethan’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of the right academic support. Despite an initial lack of resources from the public school system, his mother’s dedication, the accommodations provided by Merryhill School, and the expertise of Swoon Learning played critical roles in his success. As he prepares for the next chapter in his academic journey, Ethan is an inspiring example of what’s possible when perseverance meets opportunity.
Clara, Ethan’s mother, and Ethan
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