Part 3 of a special series following Rydell through a pivotal chapter of his life, from aging out of foster care and graduating high school, to launching his military and college career with the support of Boys Town Louisiana and the Successful Futures program
Coming Home
When we first began sharing Rydell’s story last winter, he was finishing his senior year at the New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy, preparing for graduation and counting down the weeks until basic training with the Louisiana Army National Guard. He had just been accepted to the University of New Orleans and talked often about how ready he was to start the next phase of his life.
Today, Rydell is back home in Louisiana after completing sixteen weeks of basic and advanced training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He’s proud of his progress and eager to keep the momentum going.
“Basic was probably the best thing,” Rydell said. “Everybody there was motivated. They kept you focused and wanting to do better. There’s a lot of teamwork -- people helping each other make it through.”
Finding His Rhythm
The long days and tight schedules didn’t catch him off guard. Years at NOMMA and Boys Town Louisiana had already taught him structure, discipline and accountability. “It was an adjustment,” he said, “but once I got into the rhythm, it was fine.”
After 10 weeks of basic, Rydell began Advanced Individual Training, where he learned the skills of a 13 Bravo cannon crewmember for the Army National Guard. The physical work was demanding, but he found meaning in the challenge.
“Some people in my unit didn’t really care about being there, so AIT could be tough,” he said. “But I found friends who were serious about it. During the long marches, I’d walk in the middle and catch people who were falling behind. I’d stay with them until we finished.”
That mix of focus and care is what his Boys Town family says has always defined him. He still credits those who helped guide him along the way. “Mr. Herman,” he said, referring to his longtime Family-Teacher, “unwavering support. He’s always been there.”
Looking Ahead
Now back in Thibodaux, Rydell isn’t slowing down. He’s spending these months preparing for college and his next big step. In January, he’ll begin classes at the University of New Orleans, where he plans to study Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, a field that combines his interest in structure, design and problem-solving.
“I’m anxious to start,” he said. “I’m ready for the next thing.”
He’ll be living on campus, meeting new people and building the kind of future he once only hoped was possible. It’s the same determination that carried him through Boys Town, high school, and basic training.
It’s clear he’s just getting started.
A Bright Future
After six years with Boys Town Louisiana, Rydell’s story continues to grow. He’s stepping into adulthood with confidence, direction, and a clear sense of purpose. We can’t wait to cheer him on as he begins this next chapter at the University of New Orleans.
