Unleashing Potential with Believe in Me
In the heart of every young person lies the potential to shape the future, a potential that only flourishes under the right circumstances. This is the core belief of Believe in Me, an organization committed to transforming the lives of marginalized children by providing them with opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Among this year’s recipients of Believe in Me’s scholarship, Adrian Macias Ontiveros stands out as a beacon of resilience, ambition, and hope.
A Story of Perseverance and Support
Born to a single-parent household and witnessing firsthand the struggles associated with financial instability, Adrian’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and community support. Despite the challenges, Adrian has not only dreamed of a better future but has taken decisive steps towards making it a reality. This year, Believe in Me is proud to award Adrian a $2,500 scholarship, a contribution towards realizing his dreams of higher education and beyond.
Academic Excellence and Beyond
Adrian’s academic performance, with a GPA of 3.57, is a clear indicator of his dedication and hard work. However, it’s not just his academic prowess that makes Adrian stand out; it’s his relentless drive to overcome the socio-economic barriers that have shaped his young life. As a first-generation college attendee, Adrian embodies the aspirations of many who dare to dream of a better life. His application to the 2024 Grants program, scoring an impressive 88.33, is a testament to his potential and the high hopes Believe in Me has for his future.
Embracing Identity and Aspirations
The scholarship application process revealed much about Adrian’s character and ambitions. Opting for a business-related major, Adrian aspires to harness the power of business to bring communities together and empower them. This ambition is rooted in his belief that everyone deserves a voice and an opportunity, principles that align closely with Believe in Me’s mission. Adrian’s essays, particularly the one detailing his experience with cultural dissonance and his journey to embrace his identity, demonstrate a profound level of introspection and maturity. These are qualities that will undoubtedly serve him well as he embarks on his college journey at the University of Washington, where he aims to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
Giving Back and Leading Forward
But Adrian’s story is not just one of academic achievement. It’s also a story of personal growth and contribution to his community. Through his work with Rainier Athletes and his participation in various community service projects, Adrian has shown a deep commitment to giving back. His mentorship of a younger student and his role as a volunteer highlights his leadership skills and his desire to make a positive impact on those around him.
Resilience Recognized by Mentors
A quote from Adrian’s academic recommendation, provided by Ian Duncan, speaks volumes about his character: “Adrian has shown that despite parental struggle, economic struggle, and personal struggles, he can still see a future for himself.” This statement not only captures Adrian’s resilience but also underscores the importance of supporting students who face significant obstacles.
Transformative Support for Marginalized Youth
Believe in Me is more than just a funding organization; it’s a community that believes in the transformative power of love, belonging, and support. By investing in the education and well-being of marginalized children, Believe in Me aims to break the cycle of poverty and exclusion, offering a pathway to success and fulfillment. Adrian Macias Ontiveros represents the embodiment of this vision—a young person determined to rise above his circumstances and make a meaningful difference in the world.
A Future Bright with Promise
As Adrian prepares to take the next steps on his journey, the support from Believe in Me and its donors will be instrumental in helping him navigate the challenges ahead. This scholarship is not just a financial award; it’s a vote of confidence in Adrian’s dreams and his ability to achieve them. It’s a reminder that with the right support, every child has the potential to succeed and contribute to a better, more inclusive future.
Community and Resilience at the Core
In the words of Jesse Franklin, who provided Adrian’s personal recommendation: “Even at points when Adrian has felt overwhelmed, not once did Adrian mention giving up. Instead, Adrian reached out for guidance to find solutions and sought power in the collective community rather than going at it alone.” This spirit of resilience and community is at the heart of Believe in Me’s mission, and it’s a testament to the incredible potential of young people like Adrian Macias Ontiveros.
Empowering Future Generations
As we celebrate Adrian’s achievements and look forward to his future successes, let’s also remember the countless other children who, with the right support, can overcome their circumstances and achieve greatness. Together, we can empower dreams and create a future where every child has the confidence they need to succeed.
