Being a teenager is hard enough without adding into the the stress of being a parent. While some of us struggle with basic homework and school activities, senior Brittnie Garcia has twice as much to do.

Brittnie became a mother in August of 2014, when she was 17 years old.

“When I first found out I was having a baby, I thought my world was falling apart,” Garcia said. “Turns out it was just the beginning of better things.”

Between cheerleading, homework, FCCLA, and learning how to take care of a baby, Brittnie has had to evolve with her new schedule.

“I thank God that I’m not doing this all on my own,” Garcia said. “My family has been there for me all the way, especially my mom. I’m also very thankful for the friends that have stuck by my side and help me whenever they can.”

Not graduating was not an option, and she said a helping family is part of what is seeing her through to graduation day.

“My mom is one of the biggest helps, because she takes care for AJ while I’m at school,” Garcia said. “I always knew I would stay in school, no matter what circumstances; I plan to graduate. I want the best life for AJ, and finishing school is a good start.”

As for her future, Brittnie has yet to figure out what she wants to be, but knows college is in her future.

“Of course it’s not easy,” Garcia said. “but at the end of the day, I look at AJ and see how happy he is. I couldn’t see a world without him.”

Brittnie said teen moms need to keep their education as a goal no matter what.

“Don’t give up because of a pregnancy,” Garcia said. “A child is a great gift, but very hard to take care of. Even then, that’s not the end; finish school. Getting an education is one of the best things you can do for you and your child. There is help for teen parents, you just have to look for it.”