My name is Mac Harrison, and my journey has been anything but ordinary. I started using drugs and alcohol at age 13, searching for a sense of belonging. From a young age, I struggled with mental health issues, battling feelings of self-worth and self-love. Being adopted added to my challenges, making it hard for me to feel truly accepted.
I was bullied a lot as a child, and the pain pushed me further into isolation. Eventually, drugs and alcohol became my escape. They gave me a false sense of community—a place where I finally felt like I belonged. I didn’t realize then that this path would lead me to more pain, but thankfully, my story didn’t end there.
When I arrived at Emerald School of Excellence, I had no idea how much my life was about to change. Emerald helped me shift my community from one built around drugs and alcohol to one built around sobriety and support. The people at Emerald became my new family, showing me that true friendships aren’t based on substances but on genuine care and connection.
At Emerald, I learned the power of accountability. The staff and teachers pushed me to reach my academic goals, ensuring that I didn’t fall behind. For the first time, I felt like I was working toward something bigger than myself.
Beyond academics, Emerald prepared me for the real world. I gained essential life skills that helped me transition into adulthood. From managing responsibilities to handling difficult emotions, Emerald gave me the tools I needed to succeed in life.
Most importantly, Emerald helped me stay sober for over four years. During my time there, I learned to address not just my surface struggles but the underlying issues that fueled my addiction.
Graduating from Emerald didn’t mean my journey was over—it was just the beginning. Right after graduation, I stepped into the world of treatment and recovery, something I had grown passionate about.
Thanks to the connections I made at Emerald, I was able to secure a job at a treatment center immediately. From there, I worked at two more treatment facilities, gaining experience and deepening my knowledge of recovery support.
Emerald had given me an incredible network, and that made finding work in the recovery field easier. Many professionals already knew me through Emerald’s strong connections with the recovery community. The support I received from Mary and the alumni program was invaluable. Even after graduation, I stayed involved in alumni events, reinforcing the sense of community I had grown to love.
Eventually, I decided to go back to school to earn my Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credentials. My goal is to continue my education and gain more credentials to help others struggling with addiction. Now, I’ve come full circle—I work at Emerald School of Excellence, helping current students on their own recovery journeys.
If you’re considering Emerald School of Excellence, I want you to know that you’re not alone. I was once in your shoes, feeling lost and unsure of my future. But Emerald changed everything for me.
At Emerald, I found friends who genuinely valued and cared about me. I didn’t have to pretend or rely on substances to fit in. I discovered a career path that excited me, and Emerald gave me the tools to pursue my goals.
Even if you’re not sure about college, Emerald will set you up for success, no matter what path you choose. The biggest lesson I learned was that life doesn’t have to revolve around drugs and alcohol. There’s a better way—a life full of purpose, support, and genuine happiness.
If you’re struggling, take the first step. Emerald could be the turning point that helps you reclaim your life—just like it did for me.
Take the first step and see how Emerald School of Excellence can provide your struggling teen with the support they need to thrive academically? Schedule a personalized tour today and discover the transformative environment that has helped so many students find hope, healing, and success.
