In case you missed it pt.2
For those who missed the gala, we’re excited to share another heartfelt moment from the evening. Mayerling, an A Bridge for Kids alum and recent Yale graduate, captivated the audience with her inspiring journey and the role ABFK played in helping her achieve her dreams. Below is Mayerling’s speech, a testament to the power of support and the potential ABFK nurtures in students like her.
Mayerling’s Speech
Good evening, everyone.
Thank you Valerie! My name is Mayerling, and I’m honored to be here tonight to share my journey with A Bridge for Kids.
This past May, I graduated from Yale (looks at Valerie) with a distinction in my major. I stand here today as proof that with the right opportunities and support, a 13-year-old with big dreams can become a Yale graduate with a future in medicine.
A decade ago, nerves consumed me as I walked into my high school's office for my interview with A Bridge for Kids. It was my first interview ever! I shared my story as a first-generation, low-income student and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. From that moment on, I became part of the ABFK family—a source of unwavering support and hope throughout my educational journey.
Through the ABFK scholarship, I was able to buy my own computer. This meant I no longer had to share a device with my entire family, allowing me to focus on my studies. ABFK also provided financial help that enabled me to participate in sports, internships, and essential preparations for standardized tests. The access to resources I had never before experienced helped me become a more well-rounded individual, free to pursue my passions.
Beyond financial support, my sponsor, Nicole, has been a constant cheerleader. Her belief in my dreams reminded me that I was never alone in this journey.
ABFK empowers students by offering comprehensive resources. I had my eyes opened during the East Coast College Tour and would never have applied to Yale if I did not go on that trip. Before then, I had never traveled outside California, but stepping onto Yale’s campus was transformative. The support systems for underrepresented minorities in STEM captivated me. Without that opportunity, I might never have had the courage to apply.
As I prepare for the MCATs and apply to medical school, I’m driven by the desire to make a difference in others’ lives. Just as ABFK has made a difference in mine.
Now, I want to emphasize how crucial your support is. With your generosity, high-achieving, first-generation students like me can not only enter spaces like Yale but thrive within them. You provide more than financial aid; you offer us the tools, confidence, and encouragement to dream and achieve.
And speaking of support, I’d like to introduce someone I have been supporting my whole life...my sister, Valerie. (Valerie walks over and hugs Mayerling)
Together, we hope that in a few years, we’ll have two Yale graduates in our family. Your contributions to ABFK are not just transforming individual lives; they’re changing entire family trajectories.
Thank you for your support, and if you can, I urge you to consider donating to A Bridge for Kids. Together, let’s empower the next generation to reach for their dreams.
Thank you!