Program Spotlight: College Scholarship
A Bridge for Kids has been making a significant impact on the lives of low-income high school students in San Diego through its multitude of programs. Today we would like to shine the spotlight on our College Scholarship Program. This program is designed to recognize and support outstanding students within ABFK who have demonstrated superior excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts during their high school years, despite facing financial hurdles. With the mission of leveling the playing field for these deserving young individuals, A Bridge for Kids awards scholarships, in addition to their sponsorship, to assist them in pursuing their dreams of higher education. In 2023, the organization awarded over $25,000 to three remarkable recipients who have shown exceptional promise in their respective fields.
Supporting the Academic, Athletic, and Artistic Achievements:
The College Scholarship Program aims to celebrate the achievements of low-income high school seniors who have excelled not only academically but also in the areas of athletics and the arts. By recognizing and supporting students' accomplishments in these diverse domains, the organization ensures that the recipients receive the encouragement and resources needed to thrive in their chosen fields. At A Bridge for Kids, we firmly believe that every student, regardless of their economic background, should have equal opportunities to pursue their passions and reach their full potential.
Application Process:
To be considered for the A Bridge for Kids College Scholarship, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and submit a comprehensive application package. The package typically includes academic records, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and the details of the four-year college or university they plan to attend. Additionally, each applicant is required to write an essay responding to the following prompt: “A Bridge for Kids helps level the playing field for low-income teens by supporting their academic, athletic, and artistic endeavors. In 500 words or less, please explain how you have achieved excellence in any of these areas. You are welcome to include any supporting documents or information.” By giving applicants an opportunity to share their personal stories, the organization gains insight into their determination, resilience, and dedication, which play a vital role in the selection process.
Primary Objectives:
One of the primary objectives of the College Scholarship Program is to provide much-needed financial assistance to students who may otherwise struggle to afford higher education. The scholarship funds, directly support the recipients' college journey by covering various expenses, including tuition fees, textbook costs, housing deposits, transportation expenses, and dormitory living costs. By alleviating the financial burden on the recipients and their families, A Bridge for Kids ensures that these talented young individuals can fully immerse themselves in the college experience, focus on their studies and personal growth, and choose the school that is best for them.
The 2023 A Bridge for Kids College Scholarship recipients represent the organization's commitment to recognizing and supporting exceptional talent in the San Diego community. Each of the following students has demonstrated outstanding performance in their respective areas and has been awarded an $8,500 scholarship:
Victoria Tran, Helix Charter High School - UCSD:
Victoria is a shining example of academic and artistic excellence. Her passion for the arts, combined with her exceptional academic achievements, has earned her a well-deserved scholarship to the University of California, San Diego. With the support of A Bridge for Kids, Victoria is poised to pursue her dreams and make a positive impact on the world.
Leslie Pagel, Crawford High School - UC Berkeley:
Leslie's dedication to both academics and athletics has set her apart as a remarkable student-athlete. Her achievements have been recognized with a scholarship to attend the prestigious University of California, Berkeley. Leslie is on track to achieve greatness both on and off the field.
Kaya McPhee, Mount Carmel High School - University of Michigan:
Kaya's exceptional achievements in academics and athletics have earned her a scholarship to support her journey to the University of Michigan. Her passion for sports and commitment to excellence exemplify the values A Bridge for Kids seeks to nurture in its scholarship recipients.
A Final Message:
The A Bridge for Kids College Scholarship Program exemplifies the organization's dedication to empowering and transforming the lives of deserving low-income high school seniors in San Diego. By celebrating and supporting excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts, the program ensures that talented individuals from all walks of life have access to the resources they need to succeed. The 2023 scholarship recipients - Victoria Tran, Leslie Pagel, and Kaya McPhee - embody the spirit of A Bridge for Kids, and with their scholarships, are well on their way to becoming the future leaders and change-makers of tomorrow. As A Bridge for Kids continues its mission of leveling the playing field, the organization remains a beacon of hope for students aspiring to achieve greatness, regardless of their financial circumstances.