Julian
The A Bridge for Kids sponsorship program can add to the start of my academic success. I, Julian, started my journey with Preuss Academy UCSD in October 2022. Before this, I lived and studied in Tijuana, Mexico. The first obstacle I encountered was the language barrier and culture shock. I have used all the resources the school has provided me to improve my English writing skills (Literature Enrichment, CER, Cornel Notes) and with school activities such as Black History Month to ease cultural differences and shock.
Last year, Mrs. Willison, my PE teacher, approached me to let me know I was a good candidate for Access Youth Academy. I did the tryouts during the summer for three weeks. I was confident with my social skills and group approach and was interviewed by the program's executive director, Renato Paiva. The Executive director only accepted 13 scholars, including myself, out of 100. This program has been great because it introduced me to a new sport called Squash. I practice this sport three times a week and enjoy it very much. Secondly, I have improved my academic work habits while providing a safe space for my peers and me. I have been able to maintain a 3.8 GPA since last year.
My passion is music and visual arts, and in the past two years, I have self-taught to play the piano and guitar. The violin is the newest instrument I am learning to play through my music class in school. I have been lucky to practice my piano skills in school with the acoustic and grand piano provided during school hours. It is the same with the guitar provided during music class and lunch. Mr. Noorzay, the art teacher in my school, has observed me during my practices and has suggested that I try out for the San Diego Youth Symphony this upcoming year. It is one of my plans to join next school year.I practice three hours daily with my sixty-one-key electric board, nylon, and electric guitar because they bring me joy and help me self-regulate after busy days in school. I look forward to studying more music and or engineering in mechanics. My other goal for the following school year is to learn more about engineering in my pre-engineering class. My father has motivated me to look into engineering since I have always been interested in building, math, and puzzles.
A Bridge for Kids would greatly help me improve my music equipment to create music and obtain music-related scholarships. I look forward to getting tutoring for my English speaking and writing skills to facilitate my understanding and experience during my school years. Tutoring for music theory and robotic and coding engineering to enrich my interest and knowledge of these areas. The college tours on the West and East Coast are ones I am eager for since my parents did not have the same opportunities as the ones presented to me.
I look forward to the guidance and support for the SAT/ACT preparation courses to assist with my college placement. Consequently, the assistance provided in the internship program will significantly enhance my resume for the future workforce. With the support of these sponsorship programs, I look forward to a better future for myself and my family. I have overcome many obstacles already and thrive through diversity.
If your are interested in sponsoring this student, please email Grace today at GJO@ABRIDGEFORKIDS.ORG