Today we’d like to introduce you to Colin McInerney.
Hi Colin, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I went to the University of North Texas to study Kinesiology with a minor focus on Psychology, which eventually led me to the career path of Physical Therapy. From UNT, I went to TCC to become a Physical Therapist Assistant. This was the perfect career choice for me at the time because it combined my love for fitness and self-improvement with helping those in need. I began working as a PTA in various settings, including Skilled Nursing Facilities and Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals within the greater Dallas area working with patients recovering from orthopedic, neurological, and cardiac disorders to regain physical independence or decrease the burden of care for their loved ones and caregivers.
Following the pandemic, I was beginning to explore vocations outside of healthcare. That COVID-19 experience weighed heavily on me at the time, and I felt something was pushing me in another direction but was unsure what that direction was. In August of 2021, I was approached by Tony Cinquepalmi, the founder of The St. Anthony School in Carrollton, TX. He told me all about how his therapeutic school helps the misunderstood, neurodiverse student succeed in the educational setting by helping them develop coping strategies and self-awareness necessary to equip them with the skills they need to succeed in life. Eventually, he explained his vision for The Momentum Program he wanted to develop, which would help provide guidance and support to recent neurodivergent high school graduates as they navigate this next stage in life. I was initially shocked when he asked if I would be interested in becoming the Program Coordinator. I am so glad that I agreed because it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have enjoyed getting to know these young adults and helping them as they make critical decisions that will alter the trajectory of their lives in a positive way.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Life hasn’t always been smooth, but I’ve been blessed to always have what I need in order to succeed, and have always had a very supportive group between my friends, family, and colleagues to help guide me, support me, and challenge me along the way. After my undergraduate studies, I was excited to move on to Physical Therapy school. However, when I was not admitted to the various programs I applied to, I was forced to reconsider my career path. I’m glad that I stuck with it because it’s been such a rewarding experience and helped me cultivate skills I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to develop.
I also believe in the power you gain from overcoming obstacles in life. Life isn’t linear. Overcoming personal hurdles in life is what enables you to develop momentum. But, even with positive inertia working in your favor, there will always be unforeseen obstacles along your path. You can’t always control your circumstances, but you can always control your response to those circumstances.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Momentum Program. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
The Momentum Program was established to help high-functioning neurodiverse high school graduates (ages 18-22) navigate life after high school. This time can be complicated for any young person, but many of these complications can easily become major barriers to success for those with disabilities. Our program takes a proactive approach to supplement the “gap year” that follows graduation. Each participant will have the benefit of exploring possible avenues for successful transition to adulthood while participating in our program. We also provide support to the family, parents, and guardians of each participant to brainstorm possible solutions for their child to succeed, whether that be enrolling in college, vocational programs, participating in part- or full-time work experience, or volunteering within their community.
We specialize in supporting these young people in the form of: nutritional education, practicing culinary skills, independent living skills, social skills, college preparation, career exploration, and vocational training, and more while they participate in various programming, including weekly group exercise, meal preparation, vocational training via Texas Workforce Commission, and daily group discussions.
Our program meets on a semesterly basis, which allows us to gauge motivation level and level of participation from the participant and their families. Our students meet each Monday, Wednesday, Fridays during the academic Fall/Spring semesters from 9:30 AM-2:30 PM, which allows for each participant to engage in the community on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the form of college courses, working, or volunteering.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I believe you attract what you want or need in life. If you are actively seeking a mentor in a certain area of your life, you will find one. Sometimes, it might not be exactly who you expected. Mentors can come in all shapes and size. They could be younger or older, a great friend or a relative stranger. My advice would be keep moving. If you have a calling or feel you’re being pulled in a direction, follow that lead. Along the way, you’ll discover whatever you’re meant to do and meet whomever you’re meant to meet. Success is always on the other side of fear. Overcome your doubts and follow the dream of who you can be, and you’ll be shocked at what you’re able to accomplish.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://momentumprogramtx.com/
