Nicholas, 27, is quiet, and when he speaks, considers his words carefully. But when you look past his solemn demeanor, something else is revealed—determination.

“Why I’m here, is to get my family back,” Nicholas said. “I’ve been fighting a war with myself and problems outside that I can’t get past on my own.”

The family to which he refers includes his two daughters, 2 and 3 years old, and his fiancée, Rosa. Nicholas said he’s staying focused on them, and is looking forward to graduating this month.

“I’m focusing on my relationship with God—that’s the main thing,” said Nicholas, who said part of him feels ready to face the world. “There’s more to it than that for me, though. To show Rosa and my kids that I succeeded in finishing this and I didn’t run away from the problems I have in my life—I can’t even express the importance of that.”

Nick took a couple deep breaths and broke out of his seriousness demeanor for a moment. “Do you want to see a picture of them?” he asked. He pulled out a laminated sheet of paper with photos of his fiancée and two adorable youngsters. He even let out a few belly laughs when commenting on his little girls’ red hair in juxtaposition to his and Rosa’s dark brown locks.

“We’ll pray on it,” said Nicholas, when asked about their future. “I think God’s calling me to something, but I’m just not sure what it is. I’ve wanted to be a pastor for a long time. So we’ll see.”

Nicholas admits the program has been tough. “The first couple of months I was fighting it more than anything. This time has certainly made me stronger. I know when
I leave here I’ll (be ready).”

Nicholas writes Rosa letters, assuring her he’s OK and committed to the program. He hasn’t spoken to his family since he’s entered the program, and it’s been over a year since he’s seen his little girls.”I came here because I knew this the right place to be,” Nicholas said. “It’s hard. But God has a plan for me. I just leave it at that.”