When our scholarship recipients return from their summer programs across the country and around the world, they share their experiences with us through essays and photo/video presentations. Our committees then come together to select our favorite submissions, share them with you, and award prizes to the winners!
Our favorite photos for 2023
1st prize: Dayanara (in the rear of the raft) faced exhilarating physical challenges in Norway!
2nd prize: Yinnel learned about the culture of Thailand and visited an elephant sanctuary.
3rd prize: Sophia captured a stunning image while exploring Alaska.
Our Favorite essays
Here are excerpts from our three favorite essays in 2023:
Dayanara:
“Three weeks of physical challenges began, we started off with exploring Oslo and white-water rafting in the Sjoa river, followed by a four-day backpacking expedition through snow, rain, and a terribly sprained ankle. The final day of backpacking came when the participants, already at our campsite, lined up and started cheering for me as I arrived an hour later, “we’re so proud of you Daya! You’ll do great things in life.” There was no bullying from any of the participants, my heart felt relieved. We continued on with mountain biking, rest days, more camping, kayaking, and finally exploring the beautiful city of Bergen.”
Mateo:
“My trip to Washington DC was highly transformative. As a recently naturalized US citizen, I saw history from a different view. Getting to study alongside some of the brightest students from around the world gave me confidence that I am just as qualified despite my distinct background. Furthermore, I grew academically through perseverance and learned much about government, both from the class and from the city. I am so grateful to the Farther Foundation for this opportunity to explore my education and go father!”
Yeili:
“Growing up my mom worked all the time and I never had my father present. I had no one to teach me how to ride a bike. So hearing that we were going to bike around Chiang Mai made me nervous. Everyone went biking and one of the leaders stayed there just to teach me how to ride a bike. Every time I almost fell I wanted to give up but I didn’t. With the help of the leader and his patience, I finally know how to ride a bike. A lesson I learned from that experience is to not give up when something doesn’t come out the first time. I was about to fall from the bike like fifty times but I didn’t give up. From every failed attempt I learned something new.”
Thank you for supporting our students reach their highest potential!