2007 APIASF Scholarship Awardee Profiles

First, I would like to thank Mr. Robert Underwood, Mr. Ted Y. Mashima, Ms. Bindi Patel, and everyone at the Asian and Pacific Islander and American Scholarship Fund for choosing me as one of the scholarship recipients. Thank you all very much.

I am a college bound student with many goals. One of those goals is to someday become a Pediatrician that specializes in neonatal care. With that in mind, I not only want to focus in the success of my life, but the benefits it will give me to help others in need. The reason being, I feel that my life will not be complete without me sharing my knowledge and my love for caring of others, with those who are less fortunate than I am. Regardless their circumstances, I want to help people everywhere, especially children who are in need of medical care, shed some light, reassurance, and aid in giving the chance of a healthy and happy fulfilling life.

On April 28, it was my little brother's ninth birthday and on that very same day I received a letter from the APIASF, concerning that I am one of the scholarship recipients. I have never ran so fast, but that day I sprinted to my mom and siblings and told them the news. We are so greatful and thankful to the APIASF organization. Organizations such as the APIASF, gives many opportunities to scholars and I have been given that same opportunity and receiving a scholarship.

College is in August and I will be studying Pre-Med. I am looking forward to pursuing my dreams and a successful future ahead. Once again, thank you so much APIASF.

N. Cathy Abidin
Sebastian, FL

I will be attending the University of Washington in Seattle.

I was born on February 8, 1989 in Seattle, Washington. I have two siblings, an older sister who is twenty and a younger brother who is fifteen. When I was eleven years old, my father died on June 18, 2000, which happened to be Father's Day. Diagnosed with diabetes, he had other complications including damage to his liver, pancreas, heart, and eyesight. He even underwent dialysis in our home every other day. He was in and out of the hospital for three years in which his life was filled with endless suffering. Since his death, my mother has been struggling to put my siblings and me through school as she assumes both roles of mother and father. It has been exceptionally difficult considering my brother is in high school and my sister is in college, which I will also be in the next school year.

I have high expectations for myself when it comes to educational and career goals. I would like to get around the same grades in college through hard work, determination, and motivation. Furthermore, I would like to get my Bachelor's Degree of Science in Nursing before going to medical school to become a Pediatrician. I know that going into the medical field requires many years of schooling, and one of my educational goals is to complete those years. I have always liked kids and have always wanted to be a doctor so I figured that being a Pediatrician would fulfill both my interests. Taking up a career that encompasses what I enjoy would make my career as a Pediatrician much more enjoyable to me.

The scholarship aid that I seek from the Kelly Foundation will help in realizing my goals. The Ewing C. Kelly Scholarship will help pay for my college education so that I can complete my schooling and start my career. This scholarship will help reduce the cost of my tuition that my mother has to pay. College now-a-days is expensive and income flow of money is limited so this scholarship will help me obtain my education and reach my goals.

When my family and I found out that I had won the APIASF scholarship, we were overjoyed. My mother was so proud because it meant fewer expenses. Throughout the school year, she and I looked for opportunities in which we can receive scholarships or financial aid to help pay for college. Fortunately, we stumbled across APIASF. Truthfully, I was a little reluctant on filling out the application form because I thought it was a rare chance that I would even win the scholarship. However, that is definitely not the case. I am completely honored to be a recipient of this scholarship. Thank you so much APIASF and all your generous supporters for giving me the opportunity to earn a university education. My family and I will not have to be so preoccupied about where to find the extra money because this scholarship fun will help us tremendously. I greatly appreciate your kindness and am thankful that I was awarded this wonderful scholarship.

Marites Bautista
Renton, WA

Whether it is picking up trash or recycling reusable products, my passion for the environment is crucial to who I am. For the past two years I have headed the Environmental Club at my school. Our club is comprised of a committee of students working towards raising awareness of environmental issues on and off campus. When I first started high school, I was discouraged by the recycling standard the administration held; I was determined to provoke change. Since then, I have set up a recycling program providing recycle bins for students and teachers for their offices and homes. We also supply produce from our organic garden to the school cafeteria periodically throughout the year. During my time as club leader, I have convinced my school to switch to motion sensor appliances in order to save money, electricity, and paper. I believe that our individual actions can have substantial impact. Currently, I am considering majoring in Environmental Law or Molecular Toxicology at UC Berkeley where I can continue to foster my deep sense of environmentalism.

Financially, paying for college has been somewhat difficult. My father was imprisoned during my sophomore year for financial reasons. This traumatic event in my life, combined with the death of my mother, left me homeless with no parents to rely on. I persevered through this dilemma, finding refuge in the homes of friends or other family members. I dedicated myself to earn the grades I knew I could achieve. The adversity I have faced has brought about tremendous hardships, but it has helped me grow and strengthen as a person. When I received notice that I had won the APASF scholarship, everything fell into place. I was ecstatic and honored that I was chosen for the scholarship; I couldn't help but to feel a sense of pride that I had done this on my own. The scholarship provided me with the money I needed to complete the UC Berkeley tuition. I am now fully enrolled and eager to start there next year.

I am happy to know that there are organizations like APIASF in the world. They give the opportunity for people to succeed who usually wouldn't have to resources to do so. I would like to thank the donors and sponsors of APIASF for their benevolence and philanthropy. Through APIASF, I have been given the chance to continue my education at a top university.

Robert Bronte
Pebble Beach, CA

In the fall of 2007, I will be attending Texas A&M University in College Station, TX. I plan on studying Political Science, earning my Bachelor of Arts degree, and possibly going to law school afterwards. Politics and Government has been a large interest for me for quite some time now, and I want to make a difference in my community and my country. My hope is to become a prestigious lawyer, and to one day serve as one of our country's Supreme Court Justices. I know this goal seems quite far out there, but people always say to dream big, so why not?

The scholarship that has been offered to me through the Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund is an absolute blessing to me and my family. I was on a trip for my band program performing in San Antonio for Choice Music Events when I received the phone call from my mother. There I was in the middle of Fiesta Texas, and I hear my mother's ecstatic voice as she tells me that I just received a scholarship. My heart leapt with joy as I listened to those words. My family and I are extremely grateful for this opportunity that the APIASF has provided me. College is getting more and more expensive each year, and every scholarship that is offered to a student is gladly accepted. I was absolutely overjoyed when my mother told me the great news, because I have seven more years of school left to go if I choose to attend law school. A constant worry and concern for me is how to pay for all of it.

Words cannot express how truly thankful I am for APIASF and all of its generous sponsors. I thank God for all of its supporters, as they have been a blessing to not just me, but other students in years past as well. Thank you for everything APIASF, and God Bless!

Lindsey Campbell
Rowlett, TX

I was eight years old, a year after my father passed away, when I came alone from Hong Kong to San Francisco to establish my new life. I am now 18 years old and about to go to University of California, Los Angeles. For ten years, my mother has worked hard in China to support my sister and my grandmother, who are in China and I in America. The afternoon that I received the letter from APIASF to notify me about being the scholarship recipient from 2007-2008 must have been one of the best days of my life. I wondered if this was true. I wondered how I might have differed from the other applicants. I wondered how much this would help my mother. Immediately, I used a phone card to call her, despite the fact that it was two in the morning on the other side of the world. When she picked up, I ran through my words saying, " I know you are sleeping right now, but this is emergency, I just got a scholarship!" She screamed for joy while repeating, " good for you, good for you!" I love telling her these good news because I know in her mind she is thinking all her hard work is worth it.

In a few months, I will be going to college, UCLA. I have planned on studying double major in business and advertising design. I look forward to studying abroad as well, hopefully in Japan, where my father was from. I have studied Japanese in high school for three years, and I hope I can put it in good use. My mind is filled with goals that I want to achieve in the future, including studying in Beijing to improve my Chinese and going on missionary trips to third world countries. I am definitely aiming to travel to many places. Yet I will put all these experiences into my future career, and that is why I want to open an advertising design company, my way of expressing to the world.

I am determined to work hard because my mother has sacrificed so much for me. I am the first generation or even the first child in my family to be fortunate enough to come to America and go to college in America. But this would not be possible without the helping hands around me, including my guardians who took in me in, and my teachers and friends who helped me with my obstacles. Now I am going to college and APIASF has build a strong foundation for me. I can't express how grateful I am for the sponsors of this program. You have made a great difference in not only my life but my family's as well. I want to thank you for helping my mother. And on behave of my family, I want to thank you for being so generous.

Elisha Chan
San Francisco, CA

When I first applied for the Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship, I never dreamed that I would be one of its recipients. This scholarship was one of the most competitive scholarships in the nation. When April came along, I received a pleasant surprise in the mail: an APIASF scholarship! It wasn't a full ride, but two thousand dollars goes a long way when it comes to the high cost of college tuition. Two thousand dollars could cover the cost of books, supplies and travel. For me, it would help reduce the amount of loans I would have to pay next year. I was ecstatic!

In the fall, I will be attending Cornell University to study international agriculture and rural development. I hope to be able to help people in the world who are less fortunate than those in the United States. I want to learn about the outside world and its people. In addition, I hope to double major in applied economics as well to supplement my studies in international agriculture. Using the skills that I will learn, I plan to travel the world in the future and help those who are in need. I hope to be an economist one day and join the Peace Corps. This scholarship will help me meet those goals. By being able to focus on my education and not on the amount of money that education will cost, I know that I can succeed in making a difference in the world.

I am truly grateful to everyone at APIASF and all its generous sponsors. Because of their commitment to the Asian community and its education, many aspiring students, like me, will be able to afford a college education. They will be able to follow their dreams, their passions and their interests. Most importantly, they will be able to make a difference in the world today. By showing their dedication to continuing education, APIASF has ensured us a bright future. Thank you, APIASF!

Melissa Chan
South Cairo, NY

Hello, my name is Andy Chau and I am a current high school senior at Galileo Academy of Science and Technology, a mildly populated school in San Francisco, California. Having been born and raised in the city of San Francisco, I am no stranger to the strengths of diversity and community. Although I've encountered countless people from all different backgrounds and cultures thus far into my life, I remain prideful of my own Asian American heritage and culture. Hence, I immediately took the opportunity to apply for the APIASF Scholarship once I was told about it.

Students are often encouraged to apply for scholarships because they will financially assist them in college. The way I see it, a scholarship is more of an investment for one's future. Although money is an important factor in any person's life, goals - specifically career goals, are vital to any college student's future prospects. I am a strong believer that the APIASF Scholarship will go a long way in not only helping me to fund my education, but also to motivate me to work even harder in college. Similarly, my parents were most overjoyed to hear that I had received this truly dignified award. In fact, I take extreme pride in having received this scholarship, for it is recognition from a group I respect most dearly - a group of Asian Americans of whom I can only dream of matching in success. I am positive that the APIASF Scholarship will enable me to reach my goals by allowing me the privilege of a stepping stone to success.

This success is not necessarily monetary; it also describes spiritual success. For as long as I can trace back through my childhood, I have desired to make a difference in the lives of others. This road has for many years, been geared specifically towards the healthcare field. Success in my eyes is discovering a job that one can truly arrive at early each morning, ready and eager to work. Healthcare is no doubt this sense of niche for me. Although I am still considering a variety of different and unique careers, I am positive that my future job will involve the usage and enhancement of the study of biological sciences in order to help people. Whether this road may be through dentistry or optometry, I will be satisfied as long as I will be able to do my part in sustaining the health and prosperity of the human race as a whole. For this reason, my major of undergraduate study will be under the broad spectrum of Molecular & Cellular Biology. In addition to my hopes for an accomplishing career, I would also like to someday experience educating people all over the world about healthcare and become an advocate or even a spokesperson for UNICEF or the Red Cross. Thus, I keep my mind optimistic and hard at work in hopes to ultimately reach my goals in life.

It is with great honor and respect that I accept the APIASF Scholarship. I must thank all of the various sponsors for creating this truly magnificent award and most of all for choosing me as one of the recipients. It is simply something that I take tremendous pride in and I thank all those that are affiliated with APIASF with utmost gratitude.

Andy Chau
San Francisco, CA

My mom always wanted me to become a doctor. I agreed with her. I wanted to become a pediatrician because I like kids and it would fulfill my mom's dream. That all changed when I found out what I had passion for.

It all started in 7^th grade when I joined the Chinatown Beacon Center's Middle School Club. In the Middle School Club, I was able to plan events like the Thanksgiving Dinner and the Halloween Festival for my community. I gained leadership skills and even went from a participant in the program to a program coordinator. In my sophomore year in high school, I joined Adopt an Alleyway Youth Empowerment Project. Through Adopt an Alleyway, I've learned a lot about my history and struggles of my people, I learned how to stand up for what I believe in and advocate for what I think is right. With everything I've learned, I realized what I wanted to do in life, I wanted to help my community, my people.

I plan to major in Political Science because I feel like not many politicians come to my community to campaign, so my community has no political voice. No politicians now want to help fight my community's struggles and do something about it in the legislative sector. My life's goal is to become that person that has the voice that stands up for my community.

I want to thank everyone that made the APIASF possible. Without this scholarship, I wouldn't be able to go off to UC Davis without worrying how would pay for my tuition. I would also like to thank my mom, Alison Satake, Tiffany Vuong, Ben Wong, Jane Kim, Rosa Wong-Chie, Tim Ho, and everyone else for Adopt an Alleyway and the Chinatown Beacon Center. Without you guys, I wouldn't be able to make it! Big Big thanks to everyone again, the impact that you had made in my life will never be forgotten.

Queena Chen
San Francisco, CA

I have given many thoughts in deciding my future. My major is to become a Pharmacist or a Doctor. I am thinking about finally making a decision by deciding on the courses I have enjoyed that will help me in my major. My career goal is to go to college and then go to medical school. I hope to get married and also keep a high grade point average during college. I was so happy when I found out that I had won this scholarship because I haven't received any others scholarship so far. My parents were also glad when they heard about me winning this scholarship and they hope that I can get other scholarships as well. This scholarship will help pay my tuition so I can focus on my education. I also hope that tuition won't become a barrier for me in completing my education. I want to say, "Thank you for giving me this scholarship. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you once again. May God bless and help you to have enough funding to support education. I know that college tuition goes up every year and some people can't afford to go to college. I thank you so much once again for giving me this scholarship. Now, I can accomplish my goal. Thank you."

Boney Cherian
Yukon, OK

As a Regents Scholar at the University of California Irvine, I will double major in Psychology and Biology, directing my paths towards graduate school and attaining a career in occupational therapy. Occupational therapy necessitates a comprehensive knowledge in the field of physiology and psychology, since an occupational therapist deals with the physical needs of a patient as well as the emotional, communicational requirements. I hope that as an occupational therapist, I will be able to not only rehabilitate the handicapped and ill, but also bring meaning into their lives by enabling them to independently accomplish the tasks they desire to accomplish and single-handedly reach those goals they want to reach.

Since I will be attending post-secondary school for at least six years to obtain a Bachelor's and Master's degree, I will need a lot of money to help me through these final years of study. My family and I were elated when we found out that I received the APIASF scholarship. With this scholarship, I feel that part of a large financial burden has been lifted off my household. I will be able to save this scholarship for when I attend a prestigious graduate school. Now, I know that there is hope for me to continue on to enter a top school with an Occupational Therapy program without having to worry about monetary issues.

I want to thank APIASF and its generous sponsors for providing me a clear path towards a bright future. By moving any financial problems out of my way, APIASF has greatly eased my journey towards my future endeavors, and this will benefit me for the rest of my life.

Marilyn Chiu
Irvine, CA

Have you ever been sparked by a dream that you have always wanted to pursue? That's exactly what happened to me. Early on, I took a major interest in history and astronomy. Now, as a senior at St. Joseph Jr. / Sr. High School, I am planning my future as I prepare to enter college.

The classes that I have been taking over the years are ones that I know will help me achieve my goal. History classes have always been enjoyable and informative. This year, I am taking AP Government. I am also a teaching assistant for the Modern Hawaiian History class; I have been able to help others attain a great grasp on history.

Science has played a pivotal role in my life. I have been a participant in the Symposium for Science and Sustainability for two years, as well as being an integral member of the Science Bowl team for three years. I am currently taking AP Chemistry.

My other classes include AP English, Spanish IV, Religion, and Applied Graphics. Although I have a very full schedule, I assist my Spanish teacher in the kitchen, serving breakfast to eager students in the mornings. I am also responsible for the raising of the flag in the morning and for its folding and storage at the end of every school day. I am a member of the National Honor Society. Over the past three years I have been the sole recipient for the Cottington Scholarship for Gifted and Talented Students.

After receiving news that I had received the Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship, my family and I were extremely excited that I had become a recipient of this prestigious scholarship. I feel honored in receiving this scholarship because with the monies supplied by this scholarship, I will be able to attend college, and I will then be able to pursue my dream of becoming a historian or an astronomer. I would like to express my sincere gratitude and thanks to the Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund and its sponsors for assisting me in my drive to pursue advanced education and my dream profession(s).

To further assist me in achieving my goals I volunteer at `Imiloa Astronomy Center. The experiences that I gain volunteering have allowed me to enhance my astronomy background. By volunteering at `Imiloa as a tour guide, I am able to serve the community by educating them about the field of astronomy and the Hawaiian culture. Following my graduation from St. Joseph's High School, I will become involved in activities that will benefit the community that I will be residing in upon entering college.

I enjoy listening to music, reading books, following sports, and working with computers. My family and friends have been instrumental in guiding me throughout my life. I realize that the path I will take in life will allow me to gain knowledge and wisdom, and enable me to touch the lives of fellow human beings.

Bruce Chun
Hilo, HI

Tuo che, my Chinese heart thanks you. Cam on, my Vietnamese heart thanks you too. Who would've thought that a girl like me might have the opportunity to go to school in America. Moving from Vietnam to Hong Kong and back to Vietnam in 12 years, never once attending school, this was my path. This is how I came to you. Now, my dreams for the future can come true.

I plan to major in Business. My goals are to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business (International Business)/Entrepreneurship, enjoy a life of broad interests and maintain a close relationship with my family. I would like to develop a business career path that includes the languages that I speak (Chinese, Vietnamese, and English), international travel, interacting with people of diverse cultures, and possibly, law. I would also like to own a business one day.

When I received this scholarship, my mother cried and my father said, "I knew you'd get it." Both of them are very proud of me and feel honored that I received this scholarship. Growing up in a first generation family in the United States and being the first in the household to go to college, places a tremendous amount of pressure on my shoulders. However, when I received this letter, I was relieved. My parents are right about all the possibilities out there for me and everyone else. My parents were surprised that out of so many applicants with better writing skills than me, I was selected to be one of the recipients for this scholarship - I can't believe it either!

The Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund has given me a sense of belonging to an Asian community that I did not know existed. To be acknowledged by you makes me feel so proud because you believe in me - that I am capable of anything. Thank you for believing in me.

This scholarship will give me the financial freedom to focus on my studies. Currently, I word 20 hours a week and go to school full-time. Without this scholarship, I would have needed a second job just to pay tuition. Again, thank you. This award also serves as additional motivation for me to do well in my studies so I may show you that I am worthy and deserve to reapply for this scholarship every year.

Once again, my parents and I would like to thank the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund for recognize my hard work for the past nine years.

Myanh Diep
Tucson, AZ

When it comes to education, every penny counts and at the same time, every heart counts. It is a relief to know that there are wonderful people who care about tomorrow's leaders.

I remember returning home from school that Thursday and finding the envelope on the table. Seeing that it was from the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund, or APIASF, I immediately unsealed the envelope. I read the white sheet of paper first and realized that I had been chosen to become a recipient of the APIASF scholarship. Needless to say, I quickly told my parents and they shared my joy as well as my gratitude towards the members of APIASF.

While I cannot express my gratitude in words, I will do my best to convey it through my actions. I will be taking courses that will allow me to major in Physiology as well as minor in Business Management at the University of Arizona. From the beginning, I had worried that I would have to rely on loans in order to pursue my future goals, but now with the help of APIASF and its generous sponsors, I am glad to be relieved of the burden. Because of APIASF, I am a part of today's minds and definitely tomorrow's future.

Jeni Du
Tucson, AZ

I was born in South Vietnam, and came here five years ago when I was twelve years old. Next year, I will be attending the University of Houston, majoring in Pharmacy. Now as a high school senior, I am taking advantage of all the educational opportunities that I have had to prepare for college; college will prepare me for my career and my life. My goal is to be a pharmacist in the future and a helpful person to the Asian community. It was really exciting for me to find out that our Asian community has a scholarship for its own. The moment that my whole family learnt that I am the recipient of this special scholarship for Asian, they were very surprised and happy, especially my mom and my dad. My parents had left everything behind in Vietnam to come to this country because of my brothers and me. They want us to have better lives than they are having right now and they always tell us three that education is the most important thing that we need to have in order to get to success. The scholarship that I receive from the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund will help me a lot in achieving my dream. It will help me pay the book fees and supplies in college next year. I would like to give special thanks to APIASF and its generous sponsors, the Asian community is very lucky to have these generous and kind-hearted people as sponsors. The APIASF scholarship will help me fulfill my goal in the future; $2000 will make a lot of difference in my life. I also believe that in the future, our Asian community will become even stronger than before.

Ha Duong
Houston, TX

To begin, I would like to personally thank the APIASF scholarship committee for selecting me as one of the many deserving students who have been given this prestigious honor as an APIASF scholarship recipient for the 2007-2008 academic year. It is just a great honor to be chosen and I will forever be indebted to the APIASF committee.

Beginning in the fall semester of 2007, I plan to major in Mechanical Engineering. By receiving this scholarship award I will be bale to begin my journey by laying the foundational work that is needed to pursue my long-term educational goals and to fulfill my place and purpose in society. My future goals in studying mechanical engineering is to receive the necessary tools, resources and the proper education in the field to be able to design and fabricate mechanical parts to upgrade and advance technology concerning medical instruments/machinery. To possess the ability to plan and toassist in the manufacturing of new medical instruments/machinery would be my way of helping those who need medical assistance universally.

I know first hand that in my homeland of American Samoa, we definitely need assistance at the one and only hospital on our island. And to have ownership of the necessary education and ability and given the opportunity to administer this knowledge can only elevate and intensify the standard of medical assistance for our people, and this would bring me great satisfaction knowing that I can make a difference in the lives of others.

Concerning my family's reaction when I gave them the news of selection to the APIASF scholarship. My mother was very ecstatic and began to cry. My father, who is the quiet type, shook my hand and gave me a big hug, both of them have been so supportive throughout my educational journey and football career, and they are the most positive and encouraging parents in the word. My oldest sister Seine, who attend the University of Hawaii at Chaminade, was so elated, and my other sister Shanyl who is a sophomore at Long Beach State University, was equally happy for me. Our youngest brother Wessen who is 10 years old, said, "Sean, you were lucky"...but he said in the way only he could have said it...with love, and that meant a lot to me.

In closing, to Mr. Robert Underwood, Mr. Ted Y. Mashima, and Bindi Patel and the APIASF scholarship committee and all the generous sponsors, I say in my native language FAAFETAI TELE LAVA, which means THANK YOU SO MUCH for selection me for this renowned and reputable reward. My prayer is the entire APIASF committee and all of the generous sponsors continue to be blessed, and to be a blessing to future applicants.

I am reminded of a Chinese proverb which says: "A 1000 step journey begins with the first step." APIASF you have now made it possible for me to take that "first step." Thank you and God Bless!

Sean Enesi
Carson, CA

Tuition is not the only financial burden a college student has. Living expenses, school materials, and other expenses are among them. As a future student, I find the cost of college overwhelming. Luckily, for struggling students like me, there are organizations such as the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund.

I decided to apply after hearing about the APIASF scholarship. When I found out that I was a recipient for the scholarship, I could not contain my excitement. I had never thought that I would be so fortunate to receive the scholarship. After reading the letter, I ran to reveal the news to the rest of my family. When my family heard of the news, they were overjoyed. The Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund will aid me with the financial costs of college. Much of my time was spent worrying over how I would be able to afford college, and APIASF is giving me a chance to enter college with financial aid. It will help me with my tuition and my books. APIASF has given me a chance to enter college with less financial burden. I will be able to focus on my studies. My major at the moment is undecided, but I am interested in medical school as a possibility.

This will all be possible thanks to the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund. I would like to thank the generous sponsors of APIASF as well for supporting such a wonderful organization. APIASF is truly making a difference in the lives of the next generation of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. Through the APIASF, many students like me will be able to one step closer to achieving their dreams.

Lanie Fu
Bethlehem, PA

I am very honored to be chosen to receive a scholarship from the Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund. I will be attending the University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and I hope to major in biomedical engineering before going into medical school. I believe that biomedical engineering will help me be a better doctor because it is a fusion of modern technology, medicine, and problem solving. When my family and I received the letter in the mail about the award, I cannot express how happy we were. Our family situation has always been difficult. My mother is a single-parent raising two daughters, while also having her brother and parents live with us. My grandfather also recently died, but not before he knew of my achievement. I give my generous thanks to the APIASF and its sponsors; this award will not only help my family's financial situation, but bring me one step closer to my goal.

Katrina Gonzales
Virginia Beach, VA

APIASF

My major will be biochemistry when I attend the University of California of San Diego (UCSD) in the fall. I plan to go through college and hopefully work in the field of medicine. Whether my career would be based in the pharmaceutical or medical arena I still must decide later in my college experience. Hopefully my college classes and holistically speaking, as mentioned before, the experience of higher level learning can provide a clearer picture of a more define career in such a vast field.

My parents were thrilled when the received the news through the mail. I was in complete shock. For some reason, I was very nervous when I held the letter in my hand. This scholarship will provide the financial tool to help me assist in my learning and allow me to work towards a vision with more assistance. I would like to thank the APIASF for the wonderful opportunity they have given through their scholarship program. It is truly a genuine gift when concerning people are willing to help students, such as myself, achieve their goals not only in the world of academia, but in life. Thank you again for opportunity.

Eugene Han
Corona, CA

My name is Huyen Hoang. This coming fall I will attend Concordia University in Portland, Oregon pursuing my bachelor's degree in nursing. I want to become a neonatal nurse. The reason I chose to become a nurse instead of a doctor is because I want to be with patients more frequently to take care of them and to be part of their family.

Receiving this scholarship is a great honor to me as well as my family. I am so happy to be selected as a recipient of a 2007 Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship Foundation (APIASF). Beside myself, my family was proud of me. My mom gave me a big hug. I know that she is really happy for me and has less concern about my college funds.

The college that I am going to is a private college and it costs a lot of money. I am lucky to be one of the recipients of this scholarship. APIASF will assist me in obtaining my college education and achieving my career goals that include my continued involvement in community service.

I appreciate Asian Pacific Islander American Scholarship Foundation and its generous sponsors for giving me the opportunity to recognize my hard work during my four years at Madison High School. I believe every penny from this scholarship is helping me to pay part of my future dream.

Huyen Hoang
Portland, OR

I am very delighted to learn I am an APIASF scholarship recipient. The outcome is really a big surprise, because I have a unique background compared to most American high school students. I grew up in Taiwan and spent my entire life there until seventeen-year-old. Upon becoming a senior in high school, I decided to come to Hawaii by myself to experience a totally different life.

At the beginning, everything turned out really tough. As a new student studying in a starkly different country, my life started experiencing a turning point. Living in unfamiliar surroundings and communicating in a second language was especially arduous. Without family support and companionship, life surely was much more complicated.

I knew I could only rely on myself and always did my best. This will be an opportunity for me to learn independence and responsibility. A great amount of courage and effort is necessary for a foreign student to survive among American students. Competition is high to surpass my classmates. All miracles are possible if I step forward bravely. Life is going to be much more different and difficult, but this training is preparation toward becoming an exceptional and outstanding student as well.

I am going to major in communications. As learning both Chinese and English languages, I'm interested in communicating with different people. I found out communication is so appealing to me especially I can gain different viewpoints from different people. Hoping to become an influential person who can give our society positive impact and promotion is what I seek for as my life's goal. In addition, I would like to deliver the first information and discuss with different fields of people. I have a dream to become a communicator who will be able to communicate with people comfortably and confidently. I will discover deeper in communication field and gain experience to prepare myself for future.

I am extraordinarily appreciative of APIASF and their generosity to support my dream by funding my education. Thank you so much for your kindness and selecting me as a scholarship recipient. Your benevolent support will always be remembered. I specially thank Mr. Jon Furukawa, for his recommendation. I am grateful to my family, instructors and friends, who supported, encouraged, and comforted me through difficult times. I am fortunate to have this special achievement today, which has built up my self-confidence to face future challenges.

Ching-Yuan Hsieh
Honolulu, HI

"No service can be better than giving a student the opportunity to absorb knowledge and skill because these are the things that can't be taken away." I quote my mother because she is one of the most influential mentors in my life. When I was young, my mother taught me about how valuable education is to my life. Education is a treasured word in my family. I absolutely agree with my parents that education has high value in my life. In my belief, education can help to enrich me and to help develop my goal of helping other people. With a good education, I can achieve more things in life and can become a better person who can be more thoughtful, helpful, and reliable. I had seen many indigent people in Cambodia who lived their lives miserably from poverty and a lack of knowledge. They did not have the opportunity to go to school because of their daily living conditions or because they could not afford schooling. I saw the result in the real world that those who are uneducated usually live a harder life than those who are highly educated. I have seen what life is like for the poorly educated. This real experience has been one of my strongest motivations in furthering my education. Deep inside of me, I truly believe that being educated can help me and the people around me have happiness and joy in life. Education is so important to my future and it can help me develop my goal of helping other people. Also, I can prove to the world that education is truly a key to economic success and happiness in life.

I was born and raised in Cambodia, one of the poorest countries in the world. Knowing this, my desire to pursue my education in pharmacy grows stronger each day. I want to help make a difference in my country. Cambodia is a small, poor country that has progressed slowly in health technology. I am devoted to going back to Cambodia one day to open a nonprofit pharmacy and clinic to help those who cannot afford these services and inform Cambodians about health technology in today's world. I want to contribute to my homeland of what I have gained and learned in America. I expect nothing in return for my contribution, except for seeing the improvement of health technologies in my own country.

I know first-hand how hard life is living in the United States as an immigrant, and how it feels to not know how to communicate in English. Many Cambodian Americans, because of language barriers and their education level, have not been able to find a good job with health benefits. This has made my desire to be a pharmacist and a source of strength to the Cambodian Americans. I am dedicated to helping the poor and making a difference in America and Cambodia through my education and career. I believe that being a pharmacist can help me develop my goal of helping others. I have always wanted to become a helpful person because it fills my soul with joy. My heart swells with love and compassion when I help others. Even though the United States is one of the wealthiest countries, many communities still are poor and do not have good healthcare and money for medication. Because I am a bilingual, I will take this opportunity to aid America and my home country. This is the reason why I committed myself to achieving my goals no matter how many obstacles or conflicts I would have to face.

As time gets closer to my entrance into college, I see the anxiety on my mother's face expressing her concern of how she could help me pay for my education. She is a single mom of three children with a little income. Therefore, after I received a letter from APIASF confirming that I was selected as the recipient, I saw the happiness in my mother eyes. My family and I are thankful for the APIASF. A scholarship like APIASF can help make my dream of having a good educated and profession come true. Additionally, I realized that there is no impossible mission in life regardless of the circumstance. I now fearlessly work on my path to be a successful Asian college student through the support from the Asian Pacific Islander Scholarship Fund. From the $2000 scholarship, I will build the foundations for my career and future, and later I will be able to return this generosity by helping to improve many communities that need good healthcare.

Lida Ing
Philadelphia, PA

After carefully reviewing from all the different colleges, I decided to choose California State University: Chico. After looking at all the factors, I realize I would need financial assistance. I knew my family would not be able to afford me to go to college. They were already proud that I got in to a college that I desire. In their heart, they knew that no matter what obstacles I face, I would never give up.

It wasn't until April that I receive a packet telling me I was a finalist for the APIASF scholarship. I was speechless at the moment, but inside I was screaming with excitement. It was late April when I receive another letter, I didn't know what to expect. My family watches me closely as I open the letter. After reading the first sentence, I was jumping with joy. My family expresses their sincere gratitude for my wonderful accomplishment. They have seen me work very hard to get through school and how I manage to keep a busy schedule. They were very glad to know I have won a national scholarship.

I plan to pursue a major in Business Administration. I hope one day I will create a non-profit organization to serve the community. I want to create programs and scholarships to help assist others achieve their future goals. I want others to realize how important it is to pursue a higher education. Knowledge is the key to success. If you have knowledge, then you will have the power to be anything you want to.

On behalf of my family and myself, I want to take the opportunity to say thank you so much for your generosity. I am very honor to be part of APIASF scholarship recipient for the 2007-2008 academic year. I really appreciate your generosity of awarding me this scholarship. It will be funded toward my college education and help me pursue my career. Once again, thank you for helping me become successful.

Soudavan Kaiyarath
San Diego, CA

I want to pursue a Doctorate Degree in Neuroscience. My career goal is to become a neurologist--a specialist doctor who deals with the nervous system and its diseases and disorders. I choose this career because I want to do something which makes the earth a better place. It is true that science has reached everywhere, from the universe to the cells of the human beings. Unfortunately, technology can not treat diseases. Even though, many vaccines are developed in order to treat diseases, but there are some diseases like cancer, in which both scientists and doctors have no control. People who suffer from diseases like cancer can only be saved luckily. Unfortunately, only twenty percent of people are saved from this disease. With the help of this scholarship, I will able to help those people who are suffering from this disease and have lost their hopes to live.

When I found out I had won the APIASF scholarship, my family was very pleased. APIASF will help me a lot in pursuing my education goals for two major reasons. I want to get a bachelor's degree in Pre-Med and the books are very expensive, fortunately APIASF scholarship will help me to pay for the books. Secondly, this scholarship will also help me the expenses for living on-campus.

When I found that I got this scholarship, I was thrilled because this scholarship will help me immoderately in pursuing my goal. I am very grateful to its generous sponsors who help the students during that time when they need it most. Thanks a lot.

Avneet Kaur

Avneet Kaur
Richmond, IN

Many times when I feel discouraged, something suddenly inspires me and I am reminded why I work and pursue my goals. This scholarship is a push, or a shove, in the right direction; it is inspiration to continue and excel in all I do. Upon receiving the little white envelope announcing the award, my parents and I felt the large burden of the cost of a college education lifted off our shoulders. With my brother still in college at UCLA and my father the pastor of a new, small church, my family's financial situation is at its most fragile state. After my father gave up a successful business in South Korea to move to America and pursue ministry, financial troubles have always followed like a shadow. Even in financial difficulty however, every member of my family from my 14 year old sister to my father understands and accepts the circumstances and sacrifices that need to be made. This honor reduced substantially our anxiety over money and loans. More than simply alleviating my financial burden, APIASF has shown faith in me, which is something that every student leaving home for the first time needs more than anything.

I am thrilled to be attending the University of Notre Dame in Indiana this August. I hope to pursue the pre-med track working toward a major in either biology or psychology. I have worked with children in my after-school job and with the many families I baby-sit for, and have found I have a passion for children. My strong interest in medicine and my almost obsessive love for the show Grey's Anatomy combine with that passion to form my challenging dream. After my undergraduate years, I plan on enrolling in a medical school with hopes of becoming a pediatric surgeon.

The invaluable contributions of the corporate and individual sponsors show the strong faith that has been put into APIASF recipients. APIASF and its sponsors believe in the future and potential of us students, of this generation, and of all young Asian Americans striving to do well. It is a confidence that is most comforting and assuring. I realize that by accepting this scholarship and pursuing higher education, I become part of a community that, as shown here, is a community that reaches out to one another and that I am most honored and excited to join.

Annie Kim
Louisville, KY

My name is Rachel Kim, and I am a senior at Troy High School, CA. I first discovered the APIASF scholarship through an article in a Korean newspaper. I decided to apply, as I had nothing to lose, and a lot to gain. After writing the essays and sending my application, I waited anxiously for the reply letter. My family and I had hoped that I would receive this scholarship, so that I would have fewer financial pressures. When we received the first letter, we were happy. When we received the letter on being a recipient, we were overjoyed.

This scholarship will aid greatly in my goal of going to college. Coming from low-income family, I had worried about how I would be able to pay my inevitable student loans and fees. However, with this scholarship, my financial burden will be greatly reduced, and I will be able to concentrate on college without any hassle or stress. In college, I plan to be a psychology major, and hope that I will pursue a career in clinical psychology. I would like to be able to help troubled teenagers and talk to them about their problems. Based on my experiences in high school, some teenagers just need someone to talk to, and I would like to help and listen to them.

I would like to thank the APIASF fund for supporting me as well as other scholarship recipients. This foundation truly is a pillar of support for all budding scholars, and I hope that it will continue to exist so that other individuals can realize their goals.

Rachel Kim
Walnut, CA

Back in my freshmen year of high school, I was so sure I wanted to major in computer science, then my sophomore and junior year, I was positive I wanted to major in business administration. As my senior year came to an end, I decided to majoring psychology for my Bachelor of Science and possibly pursue my masters in business. After all, what is a better way to manipulate company CEOs' mind and situations in the business world!

I enrolled in a psychology class at the beginning of my senior year and it proved to be very exciting. My psychology teacher and my English teacher who recently passed away inspired me to follow this field of study. They reminded me ho much I loved the idea of helping people dealing with problems. I was fascinated with how the human mind worked. I love to observe people; I am more of an observer than a talker, which allows me to be a better listener. The psychology field is extremely challenging, it takes dedication, perseverance, and patience, which is something I always strive for in a person.

I hope I can better the world in anyway, I hope that I can create an environmental friendly company that would help the world in its global warming and environmental problems. There is nothing more fulfilling than to be able to help out the world and the people who live in it. There are so many neglected psychologically ill people in this country that I would like to do something that would benefit their situations and make their illness livable. What is more memorable and enjoyable is to see those who needed desperate help, find happiness again.

When my mother told me about the APIASF scholarship, I was a bit skeptical about it because there are so many Asian Americans in the United States, what are the chances that they would pick me? My family was thrilled and happy when I told them the news that I won the scholarship. The financial burden has been lifted off my family's shoulder. As a first generation college student, my parents did not have the privilege to attend any schooling because they had to work.

The APIASF scholarship will bring me one step closer in achieving my goals as college tuition has risen and living expenses has risen. APIASF has given me the hope that I will have a very eventful first year of college.

Kristie Kwok
Temple City, CA

I have always been indecisive about the major I should pursue in the future. I have thought about majoring in the medical field and the business field. It was not until I completed my senior exit project for my high school when I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in accountancy and finance. Throughout my school career, I had a love for numbers. I enjoyed taking my personal finance course during my senior year. I came to realize that I accountancy and finance will be the majors that would best fit me.

I remember my mother coming up to me on evening insisting that I apply for the Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund. At the time, I was extremely stressed and aggravated with the whole college process. However, I thought it through and I realized that it never hurts to try. Thus, I completed the application and submitted it, hoping for the best in return. When I received a letter in the mail indicating that I have been selected for this scholarship, I was ecstatic. I could not believe that I was selected out of the many students who have applied. When I told my mother about the news, she was glad that she told me about APIASF.

The APIASF scholarship brings me one step closer to fulfilling my dreams. With this scholarship, there's a whole chunk of money that I will not have to worry about in my tuition. The scholarship will assist me greatly with my tuition since I am attending a city university of New York.

Carmen Lau
Brooklyn, NY