2012 High Hopes for the Future Scholarship recipient- University of California, Merced
In the year of 2009, as I was walking home form school, I was attached by a group of men that knew my father through his gang affiliation. The men took the anger they had against my father out on me for unknown reasons. The severity of the damage form the assault caused me to need surgery to fix my damages spinal tissue. I could not afford the hospital bills at that moment, so they fell onto my mother’s lap. Despite my mother’s reassurance, I saw how much she struggled to pay the bills so I knew that I needed o recover quickly to minimize costs and alleviate her financial worries. Even with the excruciating pain, I knew that a fast recovery would not only benefit my mother financially, but also benefit me academically. Naturally, all of this caused me to miss a large amount of school, but I did not let that hold me back from pursuing my educational goals. I began to take college courses at Contra Costa College my sophomore year to keep me motivated. I continue taking college courses in addition to my high school workload and my jobs because I felt that getting ahead would benefit me in the long run. Despite the trials and tribulations I have faced, I have learned how to become resilient. I aspire to not only innovate as a scientist but also to become a role model for young people who want to lift themselves off the streets and pursue education. I want to continue to evolve and grow in such a way that shows that everyone can overcome negative circumstances and play a role in creating a positive world.
“He is a joy to work with and truly one of my most dedicated students this year. He works multiple jobs and takes care of his little sister, and still does well at school. He is also dedicated to helping his community.”
Teacher, Berkeley High School
