On Thursday, May 23 Bret Geermaert and Gerrit-Jan van Glabbeek interviewed six teenagers, keen in receiving part of a US$ 5000 RB Rotary Sunrise Funding program.
Brett and Jan, both novices at interviewing students at Abraxas High School, decided to do the job in tandem. Each student presented a very complex history, full of obstacles, setbacks, financial horror, and deprived family environments. If it wasn't for Abraxas, their experiences could well have negative, life-long consequences.
Brett and Jan, both novices at interviewing students at Abraxas High School, decided to do the job in tandem. Each student presented a very complex history, full of obstacles, setbacks, financial horror, and deprived family environments. If it wasn't for Abraxas, their experiences could well have negative, life-long consequences.
Here are some of the student inputs:
"I wasn't able to establish myself until I came to Abraxas";
"I have suffered from bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression";
"I went to five different High Schools".
"I had to overcome personal challenges affecting all of my childhood":
"being in special ed I faced fighting with teachers and how they talked down on us. They told us if I go to Abraxas I will go to jail or at least will never graduate"
" Was diagnosed with the social anxiety and depression disorder. I felt every day the world around me was collapsing. Through therapy, medication and support from friends and family, I was able to get better."
Clearly, these students need help. Their comments on their financial situation:
Clearly, these students need help. Their comments on their financial situation:
"my family is living from paycheck to paycheck, so extra money to put towards college would be great";
"I have divorced parents and they both struggle financially";
"I'll be helping out with rent and food so my mom wouldn't have to worry anymore";
" this will help so I can still have a good education and still focus on helping my family as we are 13 people living in a 3-bedroom place":
" I come from a poor family and I didn't think I'd go to college. Getting a scholarship will help me get a good career"; and last but not least; MY PARENTS ARE TWO IMMIGRANTS. I AM DEFINITELY NOT MADE OUT OF MONEY"
From Bret: "my son went through Abraxas"
From Jan " I quit high school at age 15" (in the Netherlands)
From Bret: "my son went through Abraxas"
From Jan " I quit high school at age 15" (in the Netherlands)