Most everyone that knows Kathy Tran would describe her as an “overachiever,” but that would be a gross understatement. Instead, she prefers to think of herself as “a strong, independent young woman who has come from humble beginnings” but meant for great things. With a 4.3 GPA, her list of accomplishments are already too numerous to mention. Just a few of her activities include serving as Senior Patrol Leader for her Girl Scout troop, being a member of Human Relations (an Orange County based agency for social justice), Key Club, the Swim Team, Orchestra and being a student representative for the Los Amigos Site Council. “I have always maintained a strong work ethic,” Kathy said. “My mom (a hairstylist and the sole support of their family of 5) is my role model who has taught me that life’s goals are never impossible as long as you try your best. I will do my best because my family’s future depends on me.” Kathy’s goal is to graduate from UC Berkeley and become either a politician or an attorney. Her father is disabled, diagnosed with glaucoma, and her oldest brother is a special education student. “Having to break many barriers as the first in my entire family to be born in the United States, I have had many pressures on being the first to graduate from a prestigious university and change my family’s history and future forever.” Kathy hopes to contribute toward making a difference in correcting society’s social injustices through politics and empowerment. “Being in the Simon Scholars Program will allow me to give my experiences back to the community,” she said. Her World History teacher said that she is already “regarded as a leader in the classroom by those that look up to her with great admiration and respect. Well mannered and polite, her character and integrity are extraordinary. Without hesitation, I can firmly attest that she is one of the most exceptional candidates I have ever had the privilege of recommending for the Simon Family Foundation scholarship.” Her Senior Human Relations Specialist said that Kathy has “seen the difficulties her family has worked hard to overcome. She truly believes that education can and will empower her family, her community and herself. Her dedication, passion and reliability have made her a shining example.”

It’s safe to say that for Adelaida Velasquez, the written word has been her savior. Her life began to unravel when her father left at an early age. Through it all, it was writing that enabled her to cope. When her family had to live together in a single rented room and she felt that others looked down on her, Adelaida lived in a world of writing that opened its doors willingly to her. Expressing herself through words, “I was free to dream and act my own age,” she said. “This new way of communication made me realize that I am not a lost cause – not academically – nor as a person.” Adelaida is now convinced that she can excel in college and plans to attend Chapman University because of its exceptional writing program. She hopes to become a creative writer, author and Behavioral Psychologist. Her AVID teacher said that Adelaida is a perfect candidate for the Simon Family Scholarship because she is “amazing, articulate, and wise beyond her years.” She urged others not to be “fooled by her reserved nature. She is an incredible thinker and more conscientious than any other 10th grader I have met in a long time.” Adelaida wants to be “like the phoenix that rises from the ashes as a new being. I want to take care of the people I care about, who have always been by my side. I want to experience life and not regret trying to step out into the world.” Through her writing, Adelaida firmly believes that she will be able to share with others “the way people really live, with all the darkness and sorrow, but also beautiful in places.” Her teachers believe she has much to offer, if only she is given the opportunity. The Simon Family Foundation is pleased to walk with her on her journey.