Hilina

Coming from Ethiopia, my dad had stayed in the US seven years before meeting my mom in Ethiopia and having me. Shortly after I was born, my dad brought us to live here. Times were tough. My dad, who had a job as a mechanic, had to quit because the hours weren’t flexible enough and he needed to help my mom. My mother, who didn’t speak a word of English, stayed at home and took care of me and my little brother when he came along. Both my parents now work, my mom is a telemetry technician and my dad is a driver. I’ve come to really appreciate the sacrifices that they have made for me and my siblings.

My name is Hilina and I am in eighth grade. Ever since I started third grade, I’ve always wanted to be a cardiologist. After reading a book I borrowed about the subject, I was hooked. The human heart, with its chambers, valves and its blood vessels, fascinated me in a way that nothing else did. I know that this path takes a lot of effort and hard work, but I am ready to commit to it.

In 6th grade, I was overjoyed that my application to the Preuss School had been accepted. I know that Preuss gives me a shot at going to some of the top colleges, thus helping my ambition to go to Stanford. So I study and work towards my goal even now. I play basketball, love to cook, and play the begena (an Ethiopian harp). My parents even enrolled me in Kumon, which offers help in mathematics and English.

A Bridge for Kids scholarship would go a very long way. I plan to use the money for a new computer, and books on cardiology.I want to achieve my dream, and I can’t do it withou help. I’m eternally grateful for my parents, peers, and A Bridge for Kids for giving me the chance to show what I’ve got. Thank you.