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In fact, the 18-year-old does such a good job balancing a job, school activities and family issues, Faupel’s school counselor described her “as a pretty special human being.”
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Faupel maintains a 3.6 grade-point average and participates in dance, band and choir. She has worked since she was 15 and helps her family financially.
She lives with her mother, brother, sisters, nieces and nephew. She pays for her own food and clothes — everything except car insurance, she said.
Faupel’s father has not been in her life since she was 11. Faupel has dealt with depression and emotional issues because of that, but she is resilient.
“Those kinds of kids don’t make it, barely make it or bring in a lot of support,” said
St. Charles High School counselor Rick Snyder.
He said Faupel is bright, caring, driven and inspiring.
“And then on top of that, she’s just, like, super to be around,” Snyder said.
Faupel said she has learned well from the people in her life who have made bad choices.
“I want a better life,” she said.
But she concedes it isn’t always easy.
“Sometimes you sit and cry,” she said of the pressure that comes from carrying such responsibilities.
At the same time, that responsibility gives her a sense of accomplishment.
“That feeling is worth it,” she said. “(I) look for the positive in everything,” she said.
Faupel has been accepted into Winona State University and wants to become a psychologist or chemical health assistant.
“I want to help people with their problems,” she said.
About the series: The Above and Beyond program recognizes high school seniors who have overcome obstacles or performed outstanding community service. It is a partnership between Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical, Saint Mary’s University, Winona State University and the Winona Daily News.
Britt Johnsen can be reached at bjohnsen@winonadailynews.com.
