My name is Jude Qaddoura, and I’m currently a freshman at Escondido Charter High School. I’ve lived in Escondido for my entire life, with the exception of some surrounding cities and staying in Jordan for a few months. My parents, both hard working immigrants, came to the United States around the age of 18, and have worked hard to get to the point where they were able to support themselves and start a family. Growing up I struggled with anxiety and had to find ways I could work around it, meaning I had to give myself the confidence to go out and do certain things. Throughout middle school and my beginning year of highschool I’ve had to face my fears, with the support of my family and friends, going out of my comfort zone, not letting the anxiety take over. Furthermore, participating in sports, such as soccer, gave me a way of releasing the built up adrenaline/negative thoughts that were constantly taunting me. This has given me the strength to participate in the things I love and look at the beautiful side of life, without worrying about the little things.
An aspect of my personality that differs me from the rest of my peers is my determination to excel in the things that I do, always trying my best to go above and beyond the standards. Adding onto this, I find great joy helping others and making a difference in my community. I took part in an organization that focused on helping refugees settle in the San Diego area, allowing them to seek a better life, with fundraisers, food/cloth drives, and opening up our home to them. Apart from that, I also tutor elementary school students and actively participate in soup kitchens. And as a result of my contributions, I received an award recognized as the “Service Above Self Award” from the Escondido Rotary club.
This sponsorship will help me achieve my educational and extracurricular goals. Given this, I would be able to put a sum of the money towards my soccer club payments, pay for privates, as well as gear, giving me the boost I need towards becoming the greatest athlete I can be. Along with sports, I would also have the ability to strengthen my piano skill with lessons, since I’ve been self taught for the time I’ve played. In addition to extracurriculars, throughout my next few years of highschool I’ll also have to eventually pay for AP tests, SAT tests, tutors, and even college applications.
Ultimately, my goal over the next few years is to become the best version of myself and receiving this scholarship will help me to achieve these goals.
If you are interested in making a difference in the life of a teen through an A Bridge for Kids sponsorship please contact Grace Jo at gjo@abridgeforkids.org.