Leonard
My interview with Alex from A Bridge for Kids was short but amazing. In that brief time, I
learned more about the program, like how the mentorship works, the exciting opportunities, as well as events for high school students here in San Diego! I talked a little bit about myself and during the interview, including how I fell in love with fashion and art from a very young age and being involved in multiple clubs.
To help further understand who I am, I’ve loved making art since I was a kid. For me, it helps me ease off stress, reflect my inner being and aspirations. Some of the stuff that I do are drawing, painting, and sewing. However, my creativity isn’t limited to physical media, I also do photography, graphic design, and videography. Just like I’ve mentioned during the interview, art has helped me be recognized, like being featured in multiple art shows and even being able to meet Mayor Todd Gloria! It’s also a way for me to speak for societal issues and stand up for the oppressed. I wish to hone my creativity further more by participating in a suitable art program in college or university. My ultimate goal is to become a creative director and fashion designer in the future!
I moved to the U.S. from the Philippines almost three years ago. The moment I took a step outside of LAX, I was greeted by a warm gust and car noises. I know during that moment my life will change trajectory, though I had a hard time assimilating speaking the language, it didn’t stop me from molding myself into a better person. I stuttered, mispronounced words, and misunderstood people. But over time, I was able to keep up with long conversations. Today, I’m still learning and adapting to the culture and customs.
Currently, I’m involved in multiple extracurricular activities such as internships and clubs. For example, I’m currently a co-vice president of Lincoln’s BioMed club, a part of Film Analysis Club, and a representative of the Student Leadership Team. Aside from these, I have previously interned at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, which gave me a deeper insight about biotechnology and research. Art wise, I’ve been part of MCASD’s Teen Art Collective, where we collaborated and learned how to speak with colors and shapes, I even got the chance to display my own art in the museum! Civic engagement is also a huge part of my identity, I feel content and grateful just being able to help other people. I gained this experience when I interned at San Ysidro Health to spread awareness about substance use among adolescents. I also volunteered for California Climate Action Corp by advocating to protect native plants.
To summarize, I’m an outgoing individual who takes on challenges as a chance to grow! Art and civic engagement are what keeps me motivated. If given the chance to be sponsored, I’d make the most out of it and utilize it for my future!