Liz Murray talks about going from Homeless to Harvard

[mogges1]

I live on the streets for 6 yrs. It was hard for me.I have seen woman on the street and its even harder for them, because every one want to take advantage of woman on the streets.But when you have no home, no address, no phone, Employers will shun you.Woman are man people look at you like your scum.and to try and pull your self up out of that life is really hardI did it but,I fell down again.I know a few that had a lot of money i'm talking Millions and LOST it all.and wound up home less.

[RobTween]

I just saw her movie and I have NEVER been speechless in my life!!! God Bless You Liz!!

[LLK1169]

I just saw the movie Homeless to Harvard. It was an amazing story and I do give Liz a world of credit for making something of her life when she was given such a poor foundation to start with. But I noticed at the end of the movie the notes indicated she left Harvard after (I think) 3 years. ?? I was left with the impression that she didn't finish school. Is this correct? If so - I'm dying to know why...what happened...and where is Liz now? What is she doing now? Anyone know?

[NEwRecord486]

I.saw her on japanese tv show,and something has changed in me.

she gave me　opportunity to get the courage and confidence.

本当にありがとう。I want to say "thank you" to her.

[flochiochi1]

I'm so happy I got to meet you! You are an amazing person you truly inspired me :)

[vanessacormier515]

Amazing..

[Bwitchd3]

Just wanted to let you know that I used this video in my review for the book. Thanks!

[guitarmessiah95]

her story is so sad...she deserved to get into harvard.

[pauloz386]

@Californiaguy26, I'm so happy that you got on top of your earlier difficulties in life. One thing we all need to remember is, just because we feel worthless, doesn't mean we are. Every person deserves to be loved. I've gone through some rough patches too in my life, that said if I didn't, I wouldn't probably appreciate the good days as much. Some go through life with green lights, rarely experiencing let downs, yet many of them are still not that happy. They simple don't know they're so lucky.

[tr2203]

@pauloz386 Simply don't know we're lucky? Really? Well, i am perfectly aware of how lucky i am in so many different ways. I am AWARE of that many people struggle through horrible things and i feel sorry for them. I appreciate the small things in life, and things that i have! Yet, i feel miserabel most of the time. NOT because i don't realise how lucky i am, but i just can't help it.. i have this empty feeling inside. Still that does not mean im ungrateful!

[pauloz386]

No I am by no means implying that people like you are ungrateful, I too yearn for more in life, I sometimes have that empty feeling too. It is human to want more, if we were all satisfied with what we already had, the capitalist model wouldn't work. From what I learned about happiness, it's better to concentrate on what you have, than what you don't. Friends are worth more than any possession. I know the days when I'm feeling down a good friend would beat money in making me feel better. Paul

[tr2203]

@pauloz386 Not all of us with less problems in life are spoiled brats..

[KingDcome11]

I think she was always smart and had the privilege to have a good brain ...a smart brain...not all of us have that capacity to learn quick and understand things. some of us are dumb . I know there is not excuses but it's the truth

[pauloz386]

@KingDcome11, I know where you're coming from, but the truth is we are all smart just in different areas. My neighbor has an astronomical IQ , yet is constantly calling me over the fence to get his car going! I'm not overly smart, but I know a little about allot, where as he intelligence is concentrated in mathematics and all things theoretical, yet he cant hold a screwdriver without hurting himself and needing a first aid kit nearby!

[tr2203]

@KingDcome11 agreed. And that is not an excuse, it's facts

[Bwitchd3]

@KingDcome11 If you read the book you'll understand that she didn't learn quickly. She had to learn how to use the computer at the same time that she had to learn how to write essays AND write them. She did it a keystroke at a time. It wasn't easy.

[WINDYCHUNG]

now i really believe that US is the best place for those ppl who hold dreams and never give up, i do not think a chinese student in such bad situation can do like Liz did beacause we do not have those nice teachers and charitarians. Every parent should let their kids watch this movie.

[taraujo398]

Liz was around my age when she became homeless and yet she still found a way to get through school. She is truly an inspiration to me.

[Deerockdahouse20]

One Word- Inspirational

[MyNewSneakers]

@pauloz386," Why do children who are born to rich parents seem to do better than kids born to the poor, if hard work was the only determinate wouldn't success be equal for both?" That is an accurate assessment of the way things SEEM. Self esteem plays a major role in success of an individual. A larger majority of kids of low income or poor families have a negative sense of self worth than that of kids from higher income or rich families. The issue stems from associating a person's worth to a $.

[MyNewSneakers]

I just watched Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray Story. This was one of the most inspirational stories I've seen in a very long time. Everyone has obstacles, whether social, enviromental, internal, external, real, or imagined, to overcome. Odds were against her until she found the ace hiding within herself. If not for her realizing her own potential, she'd have been a statistic of the welfare system or the streets.

[maiOmai216]

I am listening to this book on CD right now. It is phenomal. She is such an inspiration and a fantastic writer.

[abcdefghijklahfrigit]

She's my idol.

[chelsandiarebffs]

I saw the movie on this, it's so touching and powerful. Now I'm reading the book.(: What she has gone through is amazing. I'm so happy for her, that Liz got her life in order on the right track and that she didn't end up like her parents. God bless her (=

[WednesdaysGirl]

I give her every credit in the world. It's great to see success (rare) stories like this.

[mitchwayne1]

Look, Murray was never hooked on drugs, never molested or raped or prostituted, never beaten, mugged, or robbed. In short, I am glad that these things didn't happen to her, but see RANDOM FAMILY or COULDN'T KEEP IT TO MYSELF for more context re: growing up in the Bronx. And WOW!! She is SO successful now!

[Belindaa952]

SHE is an amazing person who not only helped me see all that i have but really helped me see who i could be and i strongly recommend this book :)

[relimes]

Liz Murray looks like she could be Irish.

[C0mpletion]

I had an English test (i'm french) about her today.

I didn't know her, but she's awesome, brave, strong! She's impressive!!

[yogamattrucker]

I just finished reading Breaking Night, it was awesome!

[TheGradstudent12]

Thank you Liz. You were and still are an inspiration to me. You gave me the final push to go back to school and get my Bachelor's Degree. Now, I'm in graduate school pursuing a master's degree in Professional Counseling. Thank you so much.

Roberta

[ThisgirlfromVA]

I just watched the movie 'Homeless to Harvard', wow may God Bless her. What an amazing girl.

[21krizchristensen]

She will serve as my inspiration :(

[Mr2pint]

one word - inspiration

[cathy202ntnbtluv]

I heard her story on my way to school this morning, and I NEVER listen to BBC, but her story was amazing, I also had to google her.

She is amazing :)

[skexee]

I heard her story on the BBC this morning at like 4 a.m.  So I had to google her. Amazing story it's unbelievable and extraordinary.

[BIGTHUNDER79]

It seems that all you hear in the media is about the despair chaos in the world today. It is so refreshing and uplifting to hear wonderful stories like this one to inspire you in your own personal struggle. Well done Elizabeth, in the game that is life, you have won!

[jrmds2108]

Thank you Liz..... had started reading Lord Change my attitude (before it's too late) and got to a part where he is saying that we DO have the ability to choose our attitude... I decided to make breakfast porridge at that point.

Switched on BBC breakfast tv and their Liz was saying no matter the circumstances we have the ability to choose..... inspirtational and confirming (some would say co-incidence but not so)..

[LilJo94]

I love hearing true stories of people who hurt and healed. I'm so thankful that i've never been in a situation like this and I hope that one day i'll become part of the healing process for people out there.

[Theo2kitty]

Did I see Chris in one of those pictures?

[pauloz386]

@jasproul, I feel we are all sold the story that hard work and perseverance will lead to success. Sure these qualities don't hurt, but I'm sure people in sweat shops in third world countries work hard and persevere, yet I don't hear too many of them making it. I went to a rough public school, bullied and teased most days, had bones broken, witness a stabbing in my English class, did I make it to college?....no. Yet I did sincerely try to learn, but environment and support influences the future.

[tdk08]

anyone know of other inspiring people or stories such as hers? THANKS!

[relimes]

What seriously she still rides the subways?

[Oysterhaven]

Great story, hot body.

[32purpledimondz]

i heard about her on the radio an decided to look her up on youtube so i did and i think she is sooo amazing i dont think i could go from living on the streets and then get into harvard...... she is one of few who could come from a drug addicted family and living on the streets... then get accepted into harvard!!! she is such a rolemadel

[pauloz386]

Whilst it's inspirational to hear and read a story about a girl who had a shocking upbringing making it, unfortunately she is the exception not the rule. You need someone to lend a hand and to believe in you, without the understanding and help of caring people and the $12,000 per annum scholarship to Harvard, I doubt we would of heard about this person. All I'm saying, it's not just excuses that stop people from succeeding, sometimes it just the lack of one person who actually cares about you.

[sumkindawunnerful]

@pauloz386 I disagree, I think you can always find someone who cares. 

[pauloz386]

@sumkindawunnerful, I'm not saying for a moment that the world doesn't have generous and caring people, however we live in an isolative society, with TV's, computers, Ipods. Many caring people simple don't see the people who have fallen through the cracks. I do appreciate your sentiment and I apologize for coming across all gloom and doom though :) On a slight tangent , is your username taken from that 80's movie of a similar name? Sorry for all the questions! Cheers Paul (Tasmania)

[Sarahizkl]

@pauloz386 she got BECAUSE she worked hard, Harder than anyone else who applied so...

[pauloz386]

@Sarahizkl , I am so happy for Liz and her achievements, I don't in anyway begrudge her success. My comments are directed to people who have tried and failed and blame themselves. Some people can't catch a break no matter how hard they try. Yes, hard work is a big part of the success story, but not the full story. Why do children who are born to rich parents seem to do better than kids born to the poor, if hard work was the only determinate wouldn't success be equal for both?

[humkina]

@pauloz386 You are right. But to give up hope would be admitting defeat. To have life and everything tear you down into a pit of despair without a fight, is something no one should do. I believe with all my heart that God sees that struggles of those who try, and rewards them in the end.

[TheRYC88]

@pauloz386 What you are saying makes sense, but is not true. Your life is the sum of your choices and actions. Each and every person not only has the ability, but also the responsibility, to take charge of their own lives.This girl was not handed that scholarship. She took the initiative, saw her situation objectively and conquered her own weaknesses. If we blame external circumstances and the weaknesses of others such as 'not having someone who cares' we empower them to control us.

[mccanuckster]

@pauloz38....then we need to be that one person for someone else...will do what I can...thank you for the reminder..8 )

[pauloz386]

@mccanuckster , Totally agree, if everyone extended a helping hand to someone less fortunate, the world would be a better place.

I noticed your from Canada, from what I've seen from photos it's a beautiful place. Paul, Australia.

[mccanuckster]

@pauloz386 I like it. The -30C with a windchill making it -40C in the middle of January is a challenge and not something you would have to contend with living in Australia.LOL But on a serious note, we have homeless people who do....sigh...

[pauloz386]

Well I might live in Australia, but I live in Tasmania the southern most state. The weather here does have extremes. Some areas of Tasmania get down to -10c in winter, other areas experience up to 42c in summer. Unfortunately we do also have homeless here too. Our real estate market had a boom here 10 or so years ago and when the housing prices went up so did the rents, displacing many people. As I enjoy hiking, I was walking through a forested area near our capital city Hobart,

[pauloz386]

(As Youtube has a word limit I needed to break up this message) and came across a lady in her 60's camping. Sadly I don't think see is doing it for fun, as several months ago I seen the same lady carrying groceries near that same locality. Our mental health system isn't as it once was, so many people with issues often fall through the gaps and also find themselves without a home. So what is it like living in Canada? Being all the way down here it pretty easy to become insular, forgetting

[pauloz386]

@mccanuckster there is a whole world out there! Take care, Paul.

(Sorry about patching those messages together, hopeful you can make sense of them!)

[ShutDaFukUpTroll]

She's one out of SIX billion people who were homeless and somehow made it to Harvard. This whole "you can do it too" shit is erroneous and misleading, since not everyone has the ability to even make it in Harvard, no matter what kind of life they have.

If it was that fucking easy, then why the FUCK are there so many homeless bums out there who aren't Harvard bound? She's an EXTREME rarity, and nobody should DELUDE themselves that they can do what she did.

[elizacandle]

@ShutDaFukUpTroll Even if everyone can't make it to Harvard she still has a point , dont use hardships as excuses for not getting ahead, there are community colleges and lots of good universities out there .

[pauloz386]

@ShutDaFukUpTroll, agree, but at the same time I suppose it gives people a little hope and might delay them jumping off a bridge or other high structure for a day or two, until reality catches up! If some else reads this message and happens to be suicidal, please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

[liliprincess717]

@ShutDaFukUpTroll She submitted an essay for a full scholarship. And she used to literally spend her time 24/7 just indulging herself in schoolwork. So in fact, she worked harder than probably all those people in Harvard because nobody had dedication and determination like her.

Her point isn't that "everything's going to be okay" but that she was able to get through someone this bad and she wants to be an example for others who are at a low position in their life that they can get through it.

[Alkasization]

No one knows what's possible until they do it !

[ironintel]

she likes anal

[socom450]

@ironintel Your a douche and could never do what she did.. Keep your stupid comments to yourself..

[godnlenora]

liz murray a role model for people who trying to go to school and making it.

[Thrillerlover96]

Wow...this lady is so amazing and brave...

she's a hero

[bellacinderellakk]

i dont really think everyday is another chance though. sometimes u make choices and it's too late

[bellacinderellakk]

was her mom a drug addict when she gave birth to her? i'm amazed at how smart she is!

[bellacinderellakk]

she's so cute 4 sleeping on the streets all those years. her story is so touching..

[mookiecannon]

That was a great story all kids that don't think there is know way out whatch this story. You have to want it. It's not going to come to you. You have to goo and get it. Know one is going to give you anything. Work for what you want. God bless.

[karmuppet]

what is maybe overlooked. she is a genius. he brain works better than most of ours do. my life wasn't as bad as hers but i didn't process information the way she can.

so it also luck of the draw. her circumstances were horrible but her brain functions better than mine will ever be capable of doing. i absolutely admire her but i also do not discount what made the outcome possible.

[bigtooth1333]

@karmuppet u could be right, but there's also that part of life that u have and she doesn't that might have helped her brain consume so much information. i mean games, hanging with friends, or any of that other fun stuff kids can do. basically i'm saying her brain was empty and all she could do... was fill it.

[iconografer]

totally effing amazing.

[Kaizerassasin]

She's amazing :) 

[lucirz]

wow she's tall.. and she's hot too :D

[DIANAROSS4EVER]

she's inspirational indeed

[quillber]

this girl is incredible

[68buickwildcat]

Her story is both inspirational and heartbreaking at the same time. What she went through no child should suffer through, yet it happens everyday. Many suffer worse situations. I'm glad she made it through.

[oranginabella]

@internationalsmarty She graduated from Harvard in 2009. Sounds inspiring to me.

[internationalsmarty]

Love the Lifetime story. Im glad she over came living on the streets, But she was given a scholarship to go to Harvard and she walked away from it? Shes not a great inspiration to me. Sorry Liz

[DeeArrindahood]

@internationalsmarty .... she left Harvard to go to Columbia U in NYC in order to care for her father who was dying of A I D S... she later returned to Harvard and graduated with her bachelors in Psychology

[almayatic]

@internationalsmarty

Yeah, she walked away from it in 2003 to take care of her dying father, then returned in 2008 and graduated in 2009. She didn't give up on it.

[69PrincessClarie]

@internationalsmarty she didn't walk away from it. She went but had to leave to care for her sick father, but went back!

[zc30]

I love her! She inspires me more than anyone in the media!

[atklein33]

This woman is the most powerful and inspirational women I have ever met. RUN...don't walk to read her story!!!!