tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13384788029262238042024-02-19T04:26:14.549-08:00ILC - Parent TestimonialsMadeline Kronenberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00809038721402994691noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-36335400830261798132013-08-20T18:30:00.001-07:002013-08-20T18:30:10.720-07:00From the Parents of Loan Chung<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Ivy League Connection has been an absolute godsend. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We were not too sure about this program at first. Sending our daughter across the country seemed like a very foreign idea and it took a lot to finally get used to it. But after seeing what it has given our daughter we just can’t give enough thanks. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We always worry about the fact that we can’t help our daughter with her education due to our lack of English skills. We cannot tell her which college is good or what she should do after high school. Thanks to this program, Loan now has been exposed to different colleges and learning environments. She now has a much better idea of what she wants to pursue in the future. It is so great to hear her talk about her newfound dream college. Seeing her become so much more determined about medical school after the course at Vanderbilt is truly satisfying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We thank the members of the Ivy League Connecting for their dedication. Without them we would never dream of such an opportunity being given to Loan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cuong and Chuong Chung</span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-62063263631298815672013-08-20T18:23:00.002-07:002013-08-20T18:23:21.378-07:00From the Mother of Thomas Johnston
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAs_sW6AtP32_MOqNleeHLLJ_wMmv2QGrYkHFxm54PnmXHFzj_iujr6hHsARjHQis2RjvmmR8ZWy7TeYbRB2gGfth9eIrzQWzy6h1Fr3eHIMid5034KBJBQuCKY-qkjuOCN2wtmSJwpFo/s1600/Thomas+Johnston+Headshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAs_sW6AtP32_MOqNleeHLLJ_wMmv2QGrYkHFxm54PnmXHFzj_iujr6hHsARjHQis2RjvmmR8ZWy7TeYbRB2gGfth9eIrzQWzy6h1Fr3eHIMid5034KBJBQuCKY-qkjuOCN2wtmSJwpFo/s320/Thomas+Johnston+Headshot.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My son, Thomas Johnston, went
to Vanderbilt University with the ILC. This was an amazing experience for him!
He got to travel, he learned a lot of math, he now has a much better sense of
what he wants in a college, and became more confident and independent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">First of all, Thomas got to
travel for a week prior to starting classes. How many students have a chance to
spend the Fourth of July in Washington, D.C.? He also visited New York City,
and Philadelphia. They had a chance to tour Columbia University, Georgetown
University, and the University of Pennsylvania. What an amazing trip!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Secondly, Thomas learned a lot
of math while at Vanderbilt University. This was the first time ever that
Thomas was challenged in math. I could tell from reading his daily blogs that
he was enjoying this challenge enormously. He said he learned more math there
in a day, than in an entire semester in high school. His instructor, Dawson
Gray, was phenomenal!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thirdly, Thomas has a much
better sense now of what he is looking for in a college. He got to visit four
different colleges. He had a chance to talk with several alumni and found out
it is possible to double major in engineering and music performance. Thomas now
also has a much better understanding of the admissions process. He had a chance
to listen to and speak with several admissions officers, and he participated in
a mock admissions panel where he got to look at mock applications and decide
who to accept or wait list.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Lastly, I feel that Thomas has
become much more confident and independent. He took the initiative to talk with
admissions officers one-on-one to get answers to his questions about double
majoring. I don't think he would have had the courage to do that six months
ago. Moreover, he learned how to get along with a roommate, how to do laundry,
how to manage his time so he could squeeze in early morning work-outs before
breakfast, and get his daily blog done before lights out. Above all, he came
back with a real focus on what he wants out of his education, and seems very
confident that he will achieve the high goals he has set for himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I want to thank Mr. Ramsey and
Ms. Kronenberg for their time and efforts in finding sponsors for the amazing
ILC program. I want to thank Don Gosney for the endless hours he spent planning
and organizing the logistics of the program, and for teaching the students how
to blog (our family absolutely loved being able to read the blog of each day's
adventures!) I want to thank Mr. Mannix for being a great chaperone for the
Vanderbilt cohort, and for making healthy care packages for the students when
there wasn't enough time for sit-down meals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Respectfully,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Catherine Johnston</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Garamond; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-43282175999037895502013-08-20T18:19:00.002-07:002013-08-20T18:19:32.926-07:00From the Mother of Kimberly de Dios<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I couldn’t be any happier the moment I found out that my daughter Kimberly was accepted into the ILC in December of 2013. Before applying, she mentioned the opportunities the Ivy League Connection could provide for WCCUSD students. She explained to me how she could travel to East Coast universities and eventually attend a summer school program at no cost to our family. I didn’t know that any such program could exist. Because this was such a great opportunity, I gave her my blessing. Although she’s never been away from home for more than three days at a time, I couldn’t let my apprehension for her safety get in the way of this great opportunity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When Kimberly and I attended these milestone events before her upcoming trip, I realized that this was going to be really good in order for her to grow and mature. At the dinner at La Folie in San Francisco, I met alumni of Vanderbilt University and benefactors of the ILC. I could see that this was beginning to broaden Kimberly’s college aspirations. And as for me, I had no idea that sending my child to a university outside of California could ever be financially feasible. But it was then that I started to realize that she could study outside of California if she chose to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Reading Kimberly’s blog from when she saw Pinole Valley grad Dyana So now attending UPenn, I know that my daughter isn’t limited to applying to schools under the University of California system. Each of her posts during her stay in the East Coast has further opened my eyes. I never would have dreamed of being this far away from home at her age.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When my daughter came back, I felt that she had grown and matured from her experiences. She had the opportunity to attend the Med School 101 course at Vanderbilt University for three weeks and tour three colleges beforehand. At the Vanderbilt Summer Academy, she stayed in the dorms and attended class for six hours. It initially pained me not to be there for her. But she managed to be on her own. This was a golden opportunity for me to see Kimberly in a new light, ready to begin her college path as she now faces her senior year at Pinole Valley High School.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On behalf of my husband and I, I’d like to thank Mr. Ramsey, Ms. Kronenberg, Don, and all the sponsors for making the Ivy League Connection available to students like my daughter Kimberly. And thank you Mr. Mannix for taking care of the Vanderbilt cohort. You’ve given my daughter a once in a lifetime opportunity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Barbara de Dios</span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-37534493961670056342013-08-17T22:37:00.002-07:002013-08-18T17:05:48.783-07:00From the Mother of Keli’i Rubin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ever since the first day I learned that I was required to write a blog, I have been thinking about what I would say. I wrote many generic paragraphs of ways to say 'Thank you'. However, after my son came back I realized just how much those generic paragraphs would not do this program justice. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As a single mom, I always wanted the best for my children. I was pregnant with my son at a young age and I didn’t get to go to a four year college like I always dreamed I would so naturally I always wanted more for my children. I just didn’t know how I would get it for them. At best I prayed for good grades so they could get a scholarship. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This program gave my son a rare opportunity that I believe have changed the course of his and my other children's lives. My son was able to see his hard work pay off, which is a life lesson that will benefit and motivate him throughout his life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My younger children watched his journey and my daughter who was having trouble last year in school, told me she plans on working harder this year in school so that she can be like her big brother. Talk about a proud mother moment. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When my son came back from his trip I got a chance to live through his eyes. Through his eyes I took my first airplane flight to the east coast. I stood in Washington, D.C. and could hear the fireworks for the first time. I stood at the Martin Luther King statue and felt a sense of pride I have only read about in history books. Through my son's eyes and experience I was able to attend classes and stay in a dorm. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The ILC made this possible for him. ILC made this experience possible for me. I don’t know how to thank the program sponsors for all they have done for my son. I don’t know how to express my thanks for staying with my son when he had an allergic reaction to nuts and had to be hospitalized for the first time thousands of miles away from home. I feel 'thank you' is not enough to say to this program for taking my son all the way on the other side of the country and bring him back safe and sound. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He came back eager to go to college in Georgetown (Go figure since that is not the college he attended but only briefly visited). I do not know how to say thank you for keeping me updated on all the activities and keeping me informed on every expected and unexpected adventure so I can have a peace of mind and sleep at night. So I will not say Thank You because it just is not enough. Instead I will say this program is a blessing and you have changed the course of our life. I am truly grateful for the ILC</span></div>
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Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-56227563282816804852012-08-27T21:18:00.001-07:002012-08-27T21:18:34.064-07:00From the Parents of Tanya Krishnakumar<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB3BmeDTQ7rBjkE3bdtvQldE2QCdEo5Dfg_3oLr6ZqsvAYMReBhwCeGOh0xeu4k2q893BTSKDAXr55FoO1tdWYr6RCvkq67pReDPJQyfseC1ulWCUWtTMCq5_p3QrKx5iIQae5KZHlJE/s1600/Tanya+Krishnakumar+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB3BmeDTQ7rBjkE3bdtvQldE2QCdEo5Dfg_3oLr6ZqsvAYMReBhwCeGOh0xeu4k2q893BTSKDAXr55FoO1tdWYr6RCvkq67pReDPJQyfseC1ulWCUWtTMCq5_p3QrKx5iIQae5KZHlJE/s320/Tanya+Krishnakumar+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ever since Tanya got into
High School, she has been talking about Ivy League Connection (ILC)
program. Fortunately, her good
friends were prior ILC participants, who turned out to be great ambassadors for
ILC. They instilled the aspiration in Tanya to participate in the ILC program. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">She had prepared herself
very well for the rigorous selection process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We remember the day of interview in March; we were nervously
waiting outside El Cerrito High School and as every student was coming out, we thought
that Tanya’s probability of acceptance increased.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At one point, we could not bear the suspense anymore, so we
approached a parent who had just walked out of the school and asked if they saw
Tanya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She mentioned that the only
people inside were the finalists which meant that Tanya made the cut and we
could not hold our excitement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tanya walked out with
three other students, her cohort for the “Grand Strategies” program in
Yale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our joy knew no bounds; we
shared this news immediately with all of our friends and family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The events that took place
after the selection process were all coordinated impeccably due to the
energetic and thorough ILC coordinators Mr. Gosney, Mr. Ramsey and Ms. Kronenberg.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had an action plan for every
step of the program from selection through the actual travel and the summer
course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don Gosney conducted the
initial tutorial session giving us, the parents and the students a walkthrough
of the program and a list of things that they would need to survive the travel
and the stay in the dorms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On May
17, we enjoyed an exceptional dinner in RN74, an elegant restaurant in downtown
San Francisco amongst the Yale alumni and the ILC sponsors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both Tanya and I had great conversations
with our tablemates during the dinner and learned a lot about the curriculum
and the student life in Yale. Tanya walked out even more excited about going to
New Haven, CT and started counting down the days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I, as the parent, was convinced that this would be the best
summer of her life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsj-mw39JomqQKauZ3i2f4OXTF2_8-wRqHg_yLaC2U-dAfkejwMAF9IvEf5qb2hT4362tdiHppHSOm7fhhrHAR2mrJNjjhkbvR0TODYFPMvhAIRvQHuY75KslE14jhkKLaHwIvhsbyTIc/s1600/%252712+Yale+Interviews-091A-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsj-mw39JomqQKauZ3i2f4OXTF2_8-wRqHg_yLaC2U-dAfkejwMAF9IvEf5qb2hT4362tdiHppHSOm7fhhrHAR2mrJNjjhkbvR0TODYFPMvhAIRvQHuY75KslE14jhkKLaHwIvhsbyTIc/s400/%252712+Yale+Interviews-091A-DG.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before we knew, the travel
date to Yale arrived on July 22, 2012.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We woke up at 1:30 AM to drop Tanya off at El Cerrito High School.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here was another opportunity to witness
Don’s exemplary organizational skills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had the talking points ready to prep not only the cohort traveling
but also the parents who were left behind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He handed us the contact information of all the travelers
and the itinerary to keep us informed at all times of the travelers’
whereabouts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">During the next week, we
received a call every evening from Tanya, giving us the report of her day
filled with excitement from visiting the campuses to the exclusive dinners with
the administrators and/or alumni.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She also shared her experience through the blogs, which provided the
visual treats to the reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
(the cohort) had travelled to numerous campuses including Georgetown,
University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, and Wesleyan to name a few.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The calls diminished as they went to
Yale explaining the rigorous schedule of the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During one of the few calls that she made, Tanya mentioned
about the Marshall Brief and the measures that they took to prepare for it as a
group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It sounded both exciting
and exhausting based on the number of hours that they put in for the
preparation and presentation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
heard many good things about the exposure that the kids got through this
process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMDHzCPT6F66daL5gHzsQJtY9zi-Q0-m948YI6XQXCLfuqCkXG-FmHj9GAa2oXRTd9RejqgpxWdDVtiLG6-kYQESj8_upBQxdBQRZL1zPwkPsyGre5rhI00HpGk_36Se3nZ-QYqyauWz8/s1600/%252712+Yale+Interviews-326C-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMDHzCPT6F66daL5gHzsQJtY9zi-Q0-m948YI6XQXCLfuqCkXG-FmHj9GAa2oXRTd9RejqgpxWdDVtiLG6-kYQESj8_upBQxdBQRZL1zPwkPsyGre5rhI00HpGk_36Se3nZ-QYqyauWz8/s320/%252712+Yale+Interviews-326C-DG.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We could not wait to see
Tanya on August 12.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, we
were disappointed to hear that her flight was cancelled and that she could not
get back to San Francisco until the next afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When they finally arrived at SFO, the cohorts were visibly
fatigued but glad to be back at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Tanya came back with a
positive outlook about the “outside world”, away from her comfort zone (both
home and school).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She managed to
handle everything independently and bravely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is confident about her public speaking skills, which was
the biggest achievement from the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She learned a lot about the Yale culture, administration, campus and the
life in New Haven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She met some
amazing people from around the globe and bonded with few of them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">At the end of the day,
this was all possible only because of the Ivy League Connection and we need to
thank the organization profusely for giving Tanya this once in a lifetime
opportunity to preview the college atmosphere prior to her actual admission to
college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is now well equipped
to be a proud ambassador of the ILC and is looking forward to recruit future
candidates for the program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">At home front, she seems
to be more matured and determined to get an admission in one of the Ivy League
Colleges, which previously seemed out of reach to us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bharathi Iver and Kris
Ramamurti</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-69156284070841776212012-08-27T20:48:00.000-07:002012-08-27T20:48:35.952-07:00From the Parents of Alysa Butler<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgRRKEYANlxkHy8NZPMzX_JQZ_3ifPD4-IovcIpwgSAI55WnzAxkBwtPK4rg8urQhsmmBHVxvZ_cXiMh8jRNb2DinO6tzIRg9s_QkNlteSY5KFlCzzUWhQQT9pxR4AbLavXBGiZnbCG4/s1600/Alysa+Butler+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgRRKEYANlxkHy8NZPMzX_JQZ_3ifPD4-IovcIpwgSAI55WnzAxkBwtPK4rg8urQhsmmBHVxvZ_cXiMh8jRNb2DinO6tzIRg9s_QkNlteSY5KFlCzzUWhQQT9pxR4AbLavXBGiZnbCG4/s320/Alysa+Butler+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We would classify the entire process as SIMPLY AMAZING.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am the Father of Alysa Butler and I was reflecting on
how this amazing opportunity began. I believe it was in the month of December,
2011 as we were all beginning our day. Alysa, mentioned that she would be
attending an informational assembly to be held on campus given by the ILC
Alysa, always has been very active on campus participating in different clubs
and study groups—many of which I was familiar with but I had not heard of the
Ivy League Connection. I asked, “What is the Ivy League Connection?” She said, “I
will tell you later.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When she returned home that evening. She was excited
and told us that the Ivy League Connection is a group formed by the WCCUSD that
selects students to tour some of the colleges on the East Coast and participate
in a Summer Educational Program. The ILC is planning to send two people and depart
on June 25<sup>th</sup>, 2012 and return on July 28<sup>th</sup>, 2012. I
thought, WOW!, it must be expensive. Some of the colleges that they were planning
to visit were Yale, Washington University (in St. Louis), Cornell, UPENN and
others. The lucky few would get to experience living in a dorm room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We encouraged her to submit an application and
participate in the process. Part of the process was a meet and greet between
the ILC and Parents. We had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Charles Ramsey, Mrs.
Madeline Kronenberg and Mr. Don Gosney at the meeting. Each ILC staff person
gave an overview of their role in the program and assured each parent that
their child would be safe. The dorms were staffed with security 24 hrs a day
whose responsibility was to monitor the premises for the safety or the
residents. All ILC participants would receive three meals per day and have
supervision by a chaperone. This information eased the apprehension and eased
the stress. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ20UOiBPQPCtHdWmWagWcKLf9LzJHjVdL0uz_NJNCV12YQU-xb5m6d_ptxZLJhPLSCTGHduT03wgcUpBaYmAwKeypF3ZKP1bCcDeEg_ARzPb19YapARDFD4xOxWHrdJGrvVhqz91D2hE/s1600/%252712+Physics+Interview-128-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ20UOiBPQPCtHdWmWagWcKLf9LzJHjVdL0uz_NJNCV12YQU-xb5m6d_ptxZLJhPLSCTGHduT03wgcUpBaYmAwKeypF3ZKP1bCcDeEg_ARzPb19YapARDFD4xOxWHrdJGrvVhqz91D2hE/s400/%252712+Physics+Interview-128-DG.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There had been a series of interviews of Alysa's
instructors at school and recommendations and finally through the process of
elimination there were eight students selected as finalists. However, only two
lucky people would be able to represent the school at the Academy of Physics at
UPENN. Alysa came home one day and said, we have to be at El Cerrito High
School at 5 PM. She announced that she had made it to the final
interview. She seemed very calm but I was nervous enough for both of us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We ate a little dinner and hurried off to the final
interview. Upon our arrival as we searched for the room we were becoming
anxious because we did not want to be late for the interview but some of the
doors were locked. Finally we located the room. We were not the last to arrive.
Then a familiar face, Don Gosney, he was brought refreshments and let us know
that the interviewing staff was running a few minutes late. Don informed us of
the process to be followed. He informed us that we would draw numbers from a
cup to establish a numerical order for interviews.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Alysa drew number five. The interviews began number
one, two, three, with each interview lasting longer than the first. Then number
four which I though would never end. Finally, number five. I offered a few
words of encouragement to Alysa and told her how much I love her and to do her
best. I was a nervous wreck. Alysa, though, seemed very calm throughout the
entire process. I began to realize that she was confident, that she would do
well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">She returned after what seemed like an eternity. I asked
how did you do? She said OK but did not want to talk about the process because
there were still three prospective people to interview in the room. After all
interviews were complete we all took a 10 minute break. After the break all
participants and their parents were asked to go across the hall to the interview
room We all met the interviewers which consisted of some professors, community
business people and teachers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After all the introductions were complete they
announced the two final people to become part of the Ivy League Connection.
SIMPLY AMAZING! Alysa Butler was named as one of the two people selected. I was
overjoyed for her. As we drove home I became more and more excited for her.
Slowly I began to realize she had never been gone from home for such a long
period of time nor had she been so far away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The next meeting was with Don Gosney. There were
consent forms to sign and packets of information that needed to be faxed to
UPENN (that was the school Alysa was selected to attend). She would become part
of the advanced Physics Academy. WOW! SIMPLY AMAZING. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We managed to get all the paperwork done and returned
in a timely manner. We had a final meeting and met the Chaperone Mr. Ian
Lawrence. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Ramsey, Mrs.
Kronenberg, Mr. Gosney and Mr. Lawrence for the care and concern given to my
daughter throughout the entire process, THANK YOU<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On the Morning of 06/25/12 at approx 3:30 AM they were
off to catch their flight at San Francisco Airport to Philadelphia, PA. Throughout
the next month I was in contact with my daughter regularly. I was never concerned
about her safety and welfare because I was confident that the Ivy League Connection
would watch over her. She met many diverse groups of people and got the
opportunity to interact with them academically and socially. She experienced
riding the trains of New York City and has been to some places that will enrich
her personally.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">THANK YOU,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Denise & Kerry Butler</span><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Times; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-4779646138892031072012-08-27T20:23:00.000-07:002012-08-27T20:29:01.002-07:00From the Mother of Abigail Serrano<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMz7nqIgODSRYQ67VcZgBGcJSFP6AVzqJ9xyWJ28jMle6UaCHkjTScRWACs9tlg2YBhXe4r6Pr3Biov72Xm6DYZkoMnn6SG70E2KBpongqGurLpjAOFIx0n95DXzNLL3AE-wwQ_r12NG8/s1600/Abigail+Serrano+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMz7nqIgODSRYQ67VcZgBGcJSFP6AVzqJ9xyWJ28jMle6UaCHkjTScRWACs9tlg2YBhXe4r6Pr3Biov72Xm6DYZkoMnn6SG70E2KBpongqGurLpjAOFIx0n95DXzNLL3AE-wwQ_r12NG8/s320/Abigail+Serrano+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hello, I'm Hilda Serrano, Abigail's mother and through this blog I want
to thank God for the staff that makes up the ILC, and for giving her the
opportunity to participate in one of the most effective programs for the women
in mental, physical and spiritual. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Women and Leadership has been a great support to me as a mother because
my daughter overcame in many wrong beliefs and also learned to appreciate and
see life from another point of view. The importance of preparation for anyone
who yearns for a better future is based on their own confidence, faith in one’s
self and hard work to reach goals. I believe with all my heart that the one who
has the privilege to be part of this program, also will have the power to build
his future successfully. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There are no words to express our gratitude that the ILC left to us as
parents. Moreover I also take the opportunity to thank all those who
contributed with money, time, effort, knowledge, patience and love for each of
these young people whom are involved with ILC because without them wouldn't be
possible the change that is now reflected in our teens.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRVauhsmj-iaG7rGCtuy_sUoHSxs6sTwEc41STI_MHRvHhR15ZK9KqIe8fEVSXGSfoPdgagJT5UI-RTthdHmjlFF67uE1PY_GHlmP-DPzieW7NIODoN7hKLRSnP5AL0nBol-O-niOE-w/s1600/Abigail+Serrano+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRVauhsmj-iaG7rGCtuy_sUoHSxs6sTwEc41STI_MHRvHhR15ZK9KqIe8fEVSXGSfoPdgagJT5UI-RTthdHmjlFF67uE1PY_GHlmP-DPzieW7NIODoN7hKLRSnP5AL0nBol-O-niOE-w/s200/Abigail+Serrano+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Nevertheless, my daughter has in mind the great commitment that means
giving or be a part of a social movement, with the responsibility and privilege
of transmitting and work hard for others giving testimony of what she learned
in this program. As a mother, I have the compromise of cultivate in my daughter
the heritage in knowledge, the moral and love that she will leave to the new
generations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thanks again,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Miguel & Hilda Serrano</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-54116623816884553412012-08-24T09:34:00.000-07:002012-08-24T09:34:03.879-07:00From Cameron Fulton’s Aunt
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<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The
Ivy League Connection was very valuable for Cameron in so many ways. It has
taught him that perseverance pays off with a feeling of great accomplishment.
His uncle and I believe that he now realizes that it is so easy to give up on a
goal or a dream. There are no regrets however, when you know that you have done
all you know to do to reach your destination and it comes to reality. It has
given Cameron a sense of pride and growth in so many areas. He is learning
accountability and responsibility to a higher level. Being involved with the ILC
has stirred some self motivation in him to manage his time more effectively,
developing skills needed to succeed in life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0000e8; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u><br /></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1ikMX1rWCNmd0sYp_lRRYcLgT4FxnLlXDCoktYyzbN_DvgrAKFCk8IfrMwhjSQ7oTuHTJJm7jB_m56rX7aPfpW9e8YkvK_a6o8Rrzr3h8X7xahlk64DCXPYK0EWSYv-dHovdh6Z12MU/s1600/Cameron+Fulton+for+the+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1ikMX1rWCNmd0sYp_lRRYcLgT4FxnLlXDCoktYyzbN_DvgrAKFCk8IfrMwhjSQ7oTuHTJJm7jB_m56rX7aPfpW9e8YkvK_a6o8Rrzr3h8X7xahlk64DCXPYK0EWSYv-dHovdh6Z12MU/s400/Cameron+Fulton+for+the+Blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before
the ILC, Cameron had expressed that he did not want to leave California for
college. Now he is very open to venture out. He enjoyed meeting students from
other countries as well as other states. He learned time management with
getting to class on time, understanding that the ritual he goes through with
getting dressed for the day does not need to take so long. I laughed at his
blog where he said, “I learned how to get to class from my bed in 30 minutes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">His
experiences with the different outings were unforgettable. The restaurants, the
different types of food he was exposed to and the willingness to try them shows
growth. Cameron, like myself, had issues with trying anything new, especially
if it looks different from what we are used to (e.g. pig face). Now he is more
adventuresome in that area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">His
dorm life, and meeting new people was such a great experience for him that he
now is willing to go out of state to school. He is very interested in Northwestern
University, as it has everything that interests him. They have mechanical
engineering, D1 sports as he plays baseball, and they have a great music
department. He plays saxophone and loves jazz. He will be applying to UPenn,
and NYU as well just to name a few of his choices.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We
would like to sincerely thank Charles Ramsey, Madeline Kronenberg, and Don
Gosney for this great opportunity for Cameron. It has given him the belief that
he too can succeed in the environment of an Ivy League University, and this
experience will last him a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank
you again, ILC<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Karen
Bolden</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-42068919337292911242012-08-22T20:58:00.002-07:002012-08-22T20:59:15.487-07:00From the Mother of Aurea Riboroso<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4OlHixBXUCSLEgRo4xq5QH37whEim_XZGHlfC7w0SNlymQdJjBbbO4_tZaLMGRS0ZNDeFajaHLuNeaEiaM4vwsHDH-dnHeplo_ZDQYvTuauVjWrTo209DOHPShjFG1PpcS_XmeJUNfyc/s1600/Aurea+Riboroso+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4OlHixBXUCSLEgRo4xq5QH37whEim_XZGHlfC7w0SNlymQdJjBbbO4_tZaLMGRS0ZNDeFajaHLuNeaEiaM4vwsHDH-dnHeplo_ZDQYvTuauVjWrTo209DOHPShjFG1PpcS_XmeJUNfyc/s320/Aurea+Riboroso+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times;">First of all, I would like
to thank you all for your time, sacrifice and efforts to make this summer
program successful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times;">I was shocked when my
daughter told me that she was going to Columbia University. It was so hard
because it was her first time being apart from her family for so long. But, she
explained to me that it was a great opportunity for her. I didn’t want to be a
hindrance to her dreams. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times;">Finally she got my
approval but I was still worried about her. When she left, I constantly checked
the ILC website to see her blogs: I was so amazed by all her adventures
explained in her blogs. It gave me a peace of mind to know she was doing well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times;">I’m so proud of her. Her
growth in maturity and responsibility is astounding. I am very thankful for all
the people part of the Ivy League Connection. This is a tremendous program that
molds the students for a brighter future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times;">I also want to thank Mrs.
Cheryl Lilhanand for a great job. I know it was a big responsibility to take
care of youths for about a month in such big city. I’m grateful that my
daughter was part of the ILC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">Mrs. Carmelita Villa</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-20250160861599117952012-08-22T16:01:00.003-07:002012-08-22T16:01:46.261-07:00From the Mother of Romina Pelaez<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVh7IExnvPB88ie5zQfelzv7VXfnKa-jA65ELED16fyoCpvSwj_R8FmH94CmSSySmTDGR3fsksB0hVvEOfEhofkVjtZF_YnHt1Glj_SJV3i4CSkVtkorqOxas5OVbRSiQtjq_j8i-vJ4/s1600/Romina+Pelaez+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVh7IExnvPB88ie5zQfelzv7VXfnKa-jA65ELED16fyoCpvSwj_R8FmH94CmSSySmTDGR3fsksB0hVvEOfEhofkVjtZF_YnHt1Glj_SJV3i4CSkVtkorqOxas5OVbRSiQtjq_j8i-vJ4/s320/Romina+Pelaez+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">My husband
and I are thankful for the opportunity that the Ivy League Connection has given
to our daughter, Romina, to be a part of its program—this program that sends
qualified students to different prestigious universities and colleges to take
up a short course over the summer. We were very happy and proud of her when we
first learned about the good news that she was accepted to the ILC. The process
that she went through to get into the program was challenging—defending her
point of view on a not-so-easy topic through essay writing, experiencing the
intense panel interview, and applying to the actual college—already gave her
the opportunity to learn how it is like in college and in the real world after
college. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">The fancy
dinner at Boulevard a couple of weeks prior to the trip to the East Coast was
also a wonderful experience for Romina where she got to meet and interact with
other Ivy Leaguers and sponsors. I can only imagine the wonderful events she's
attended back east.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-z275iT7UBzlxJdSyWAeb8wdRvMMI8hui4aVtykjOLZkc-EuwXCLyjH6Je4VsAAytJREFS56ORU_cbWCkfD0zrNzPc53es39gX_zHfDSEIYYXV33t2ZY93Oq09kPInZK4w1Zf_9dA0k/s1600/Romina+Pelaez+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-z275iT7UBzlxJdSyWAeb8wdRvMMI8hui4aVtykjOLZkc-EuwXCLyjH6Je4VsAAytJREFS56ORU_cbWCkfD0zrNzPc53es39gX_zHfDSEIYYXV33t2ZY93Oq09kPInZK4w1Zf_9dA0k/s320/Romina+Pelaez+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">We had mixed
emotions about it; happy for Romina because it was an opportunity of a lifetime
for her, but at the same time sad because of the 3-week separation from each
other. It was very hard for us to let her go because that was the first time
that Romina would be away from our family for 3 weeks, considering the distance
and fear of not being there with her in case she needed us. Nonetheless, her
eagerness and enthusiasm to learn things outside of her usual high school
environment changed our mind. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">Aside from
the academic understanding of the Women and Leadership course, her short stay
at Brown University has taught her a lot of things: how to mingle with people
from different walks of life, how to handle challenging situations in or
outside the campus, how to budget her finances, and most especially
independence from us. When she returned from Brown, there was some type of
energy I saw in her—some type of drive to pursue her dreams and achieve her
goals. The overall ILC experience made Romina a mature and better person, a
blessing that she will cherish for the rest of her life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">As a parent,
it's difficult to see your child slowly separate from you. Letting Romina go
miles away from us at her age was not easy, but now it's definitely safe to say
that it was all worth it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">-Dinah
Pelaez, mom</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-69713990926185576882012-08-22T10:46:00.002-07:002012-08-22T10:48:24.101-07:00From the Mother of David Barba<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyqVo8OYf5l41FcAYhWPttHqc9_Ichf5WV0ZfYUYQujj4rI5_xyqJAjO7ea2FB30vpbU_EAFHrre6jzDS-NcfY3wAmwv-s5sjExiXDHTI5ojlIPaPE9p7SPTQ8C1wo1Tq8GGrU9IVSDBo/s1600/David+Barba+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyqVo8OYf5l41FcAYhWPttHqc9_Ichf5WV0ZfYUYQujj4rI5_xyqJAjO7ea2FB30vpbU_EAFHrre6jzDS-NcfY3wAmwv-s5sjExiXDHTI5ojlIPaPE9p7SPTQ8C1wo1Tq8GGrU9IVSDBo/s320/David+Barba+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I first heard about the Ivy League
Connection when David came home one day from school and just started talking
about it. I was amazed that there was a program like the Ivy League Connection
right in our school district, helping our students go beyond their full
capabilities. I had my doubts of the program being a full scholarship because
it was an Ivy League program, but David took me straight to the ILC website to
prove. I have always wanted my children to have a better life than me: to
explore the world, to have no worries, and be happy. The only way for them to
reach this was by education, so I pushed David to go for the program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After our conversation about the
ILC, I knew it in my heart he would get accepted because he stopped doing his
regular activities during the winter break and was focused on the program. His
face was so focused on getting in, that when I finally heard that he had made
the interview, I was glad to see him smiling again. The interview process was
really nerve racking having to wait for everyone to go up, and then an extra
hour for the final decisions. While we waited, I can remember him being ready
to jump out of his chair, thinking that he was not going to be accepted. I
remained hopeful and told him that he still had a chance because he gives
himself high standards, and from personal experience as being his mother, he
almost always does very well. As the results were being announced, he was
surprised to have been accepted. The night ended with excitement for the whole
family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1d7Yh9sWzNZ5V_lYE3sEEAqA7AnZbkrAvzR_iTcXSf0HxR7NGuVGFu36WiFOCkes2WX-c70pAlojCjM2xaau71qTjxrAr-Sg0mrcvYqQtPPpMylDEM9lZ0SVWw1cd-WQ_WM725IxLZtM/s1600/%252712+Physics+Interview-124A-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1d7Yh9sWzNZ5V_lYE3sEEAqA7AnZbkrAvzR_iTcXSf0HxR7NGuVGFu36WiFOCkes2WX-c70pAlojCjM2xaau71qTjxrAr-Sg0mrcvYqQtPPpMylDEM9lZ0SVWw1cd-WQ_WM725IxLZtM/s400/%252712+Physics+Interview-124A-DG.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the months passed, along with each
of the events, I could see David’s excitement towards the program. I was a bit
nervous myself as a mother, because he has never been away from home for more
than a one or two days. The physics program was a month, which made me worry
once he was there. After talking with him for the first week, his voice sounded
very excited and I could tell by the blogs that he was having lots of fun,
which helped take away my worries. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The ILC has opened the world to
David, which he was able to do because he always worked hard in school. My
family would like to thank Mr. Ramsey, Don Gosney, and Ms. Kronenberg for
giving David this wonderful opportunity and for their dedication to help the
students of our community to go beyond California. I would also like to thank Ian
Lawrence, his chaperone, for the excellent care of the students. David seems
more ambitious than ever now, because the Ivy League Connection has shown him
hard work does pay off. Once again, thank you to everyone from the Ivy League
Connection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Silvia Barba</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-50801028355819667152012-08-22T10:19:00.001-07:002012-08-22T10:19:20.032-07:00From the Mother of Mariko Whitenack
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<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpdzdl06FOGDI_HWiTLuVkED-0ukKbivL0fJIgEI7v7OJ5z7tqOOW3y-zpeGIqucbIsIOQDOFw70JIVZraZkbJ7c7v00LIg-_nST8szFU6n9EfknUZso0dnCq154mm5Re0DuuCLwRMO8/s1600/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpdzdl06FOGDI_HWiTLuVkED-0ukKbivL0fJIgEI7v7OJ5z7tqOOW3y-zpeGIqucbIsIOQDOFw70JIVZraZkbJ7c7v00LIg-_nST8szFU6n9EfknUZso0dnCq154mm5Re0DuuCLwRMO8/s320/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I would first like to express
appreciation for the extraordinary opportunities the ILC program provides
WCCUSD students. When Mariko first
heard of the ILC program two years ago, I was impressed that a program of such vision
and scope existed in the WCCUSD. As
a graduate of El Cerrito High School many years ago, I was one of many
classmates who applied only to the University of California Berkeley and did
not even consider applying to any universities outside of California. The entire ILC process requires that
students demonstrate maturity and personal responsibility, including time
management and interpersonal skills.
The ILC application requires that applicants develop thoughtful written
and verbal responses to challenging questions. The ILC dinners expose students
to alumni from select schools who describe their experiences of undergraduate,
postgraduate, and career choices. Through helping to develop the U Penn group
blog site and arrange for college tour dinners, Mariko was required to deal
with the challenging responsibility of meeting deadlines and arranging
logistics. The college tours and
the mentorship programs allow the students to interact with admissions officers,
current students, and alumni; to become familiar with expectations of the
application and selection process; and to hear individual insights into the
academic, cultural, and social environments of specific colleges.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb5nNJlWBy5Qs0TlFCuXR-bu0yqTwWXa4mXL5jy6gczolRuk4K4FPbO_kOF0PPkmRXxYOniB78rKGqd7Xr0kmwkxYQGuLyn5T2l8OeUAmsH4m7lW-FSJ0qPhNuBiCN6dl5ke_gweAZk_Q/s1600/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb5nNJlWBy5Qs0TlFCuXR-bu0yqTwWXa4mXL5jy6gczolRuk4K4FPbO_kOF0PPkmRXxYOniB78rKGqd7Xr0kmwkxYQGuLyn5T2l8OeUAmsH4m7lW-FSJ0qPhNuBiCN6dl5ke_gweAZk_Q/s320/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was excited when Mariko applied
to and was accepted to the ILC program in experimental physics at the
University of Pennsylvania.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Experimental physics seemed like an ideal subject for Mariko to apply
the enthusiasm for math that she had gained from many exceptional math classes
at ECHS to a field with so many real life applications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mariko’s experience attending the
4-week experimental physics course was phenomenal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The curriculum, faculty, and lab facility were exceptional.
The course enabled her to get a sense of the level of academic preparation and
dedication experienced at selective universities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rigorous course provided Mariko an opportunity to
process the strengths and challenges of her WCCUSD education.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She also experienced the gender
composition of her class, which reflected that of a field marked by one of the
lowest representations of women in the sciences. While she reported initial
challenges, she emerged with an increased sense of confidence as well as
perspective as to which sorts of colleges might provide the academic, physical,
and social environment with the best fit. The visits to Washington University
in St. Louis, the University of Chicago, and Northwestern University enabled
Mariko to consider opportunities in regions of the country she had never
experienced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I appreciate the dedication and
efforts of Charles, Don, and Madeline in developing, coordinating, and
sustaining the ILC program for WCCUSD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many thanks also to Ian for taking excellent care of the U Penn group of
students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope that the
returning ILC students take the opportunity to share with their fellow students
their experiences of the opportunities that selective colleges offer, the
academic rigor required, and intellectual rewards gained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mariko is extremely fortunate to have
benefited from the life-changing experience the ILC has afforded her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The WCCUSD ILC program serves as a
model that many other school districts could seek to emulate to provide such
invaluable experiences to their students.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Catherine Chin</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-46469169365543207822012-08-20T10:13:00.002-07:002012-08-20T10:13:26.154-07:00From the Parents of Molly Radosevich
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBwT6fIIw1DRKqTsr-02xF12AAHaFLdMx5dWAyIu8QEsLbJFc1N-Dq16bFF061tmlOy2fTWVeJTWFYp5MEKZPb39h8pXJRlF6y1sPJCHdJ-Qu5a_e-v7fyP7MOv-BMYAmV-E5E4gP3yI/s1600/Molly+Radosevich+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBwT6fIIw1DRKqTsr-02xF12AAHaFLdMx5dWAyIu8QEsLbJFc1N-Dq16bFF061tmlOy2fTWVeJTWFYp5MEKZPb39h8pXJRlF6y1sPJCHdJ-Qu5a_e-v7fyP7MOv-BMYAmV-E5E4gP3yI/s320/Molly+Radosevich+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">First of all, our
sincere thank you to the Ivy League Connection for providing a fabulous opportunity
for our daughter, Molly. Molly attended a summer session at Brown University
where she participated in a two week seminar on Women & Leadership. The course
work, social interactions, and exposure to east coast culture will be of
benefit to her for a long time to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Looking back on the
experience, the Ivy League Connection is a very generous program. The academic
exposure at Brown was excellent. In addition, the opportunity to visit a number
of other schools on the east coast including Wellesley, Dartmouth, Brandeis and
Harvard was huge. Molly is very interested in music and during her trip she was
able to meet with and play for one of the piano instructors at Wellesley. Another
door opened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Also worth noting is
that the ILC is not simply generous, it is rigorous. The application process
included both written and oral segments which were challenging. Getting through
these was not so easy, and the experience will stand all the participants in
good stead in the future. The attention required to meet deadlines, timelines,
and be on time is a necessary skill that will contribute to success in the future
for Molly and her entire cohort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">No review of this
summer could be complete without acknowledging the many individuals connected
with the ILC that we had the opportunity to meet. What a stellar group of
people! It is amazing they can pull this off year in and year out. And in particular
we (and Molly) thank Jackie Timmes, Katherine Williams and Ms. Kaplan who watched
over the cohort on their trip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">The ILC has opened
many doors for Molly, and the connections she has made through the program will
undoubtedly make a real difference for her as she navigates the waters ahead.
We are grateful she was able to participate in what turned out to be a truly
great experience for her.</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-26287425218151242232012-08-19T12:46:00.001-07:002012-08-19T12:50:09.332-07:00From the Father of Clara Lengacher<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-RAwyxLj_-5j2cchCVOOVvuTyJynfo12YNHN2hgRKQH8GjB94GX-098waE8s7BPRehP1tqq7ul8D0ennQ4eS54Egz1Lx1yp94nMwvJaA9PaDqDKnpebEzEERPTjuAGUKOqoJOLly6xs/s1600/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-4C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-RAwyxLj_-5j2cchCVOOVvuTyJynfo12YNHN2hgRKQH8GjB94GX-098waE8s7BPRehP1tqq7ul8D0ennQ4eS54Egz1Lx1yp94nMwvJaA9PaDqDKnpebEzEERPTjuAGUKOqoJOLly6xs/s320/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-4C.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I wanted to share my
perspectives about my daughter, Clara Lengacher’s experience at the ILC
Experimental Physics Discovery at UPenn this summer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">To start, I feel that this
program is creative, forward thinking and exactly the type of program that we
should be seeing more of in the educational community. Partnerships with
institutions of higher learning are vital to the articulation, matriculation and
improved success of our students. The combination of social skills, networking,
and the high quality of the educational experiences should be accessible to all
and I feel this program opens doors for our young people to make connections,
experience social interaction in a way that they might not be accustomed to,
and pursue a specific subject of interest to them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">From my experience at the
kick off dinner and discussions with various alumni of UPenn and major donors
to ILC, I was encouraged about the state of education in our community and
heartened to know that it extends across the country. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDeELErxIlnZ7w8sALRebCTPEt5OGRTI6_B8tRmeda7umJk30Wf4HsW4urHspQMC4ayJmgoeGkxwhDAK84kzssmjeajtUOec4oN8He58Q38sHoTbxvp_kkwQWi33gg66paq_paz3gWcr0/s1600/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-3C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDeELErxIlnZ7w8sALRebCTPEt5OGRTI6_B8tRmeda7umJk30Wf4HsW4urHspQMC4ayJmgoeGkxwhDAK84kzssmjeajtUOec4oN8He58Q38sHoTbxvp_kkwQWi33gg66paq_paz3gWcr0/s320/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-3C.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I Skyped with my daughter
every week and was updated on the amazing things they were doing in class, the
people she met within the program and during visits to the other schools
besides UPenn, and about the new folks she met in her Physics program, not just
from all over the United States, but the World. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My only constructive
criticism of the entire process is that perhaps the interactions between the
ILC staff and the students, in public forums, could be administered in a more
respectful fashion. I witnessed an interaction at the dinner at La Folie that I
felt was somewhat degrading and embarrassing to the individual. I realize the
importance of developing their social skills in a short amount of time, but
wonder if this could be done in a more mindful and respectful manner. I don’t
think there is any benefit in dressing down a young person if front of their
peers or adults that they may or may not know. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you for your vision,
time and energy in thinking outside the box, creating valuable opportunities
for the students of this district, and for changing the lives of those
individuals fortunate enough to participate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bruce Lengacher<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-39059376100236953372012-08-18T19:39:00.001-07:002012-08-18T19:39:16.855-07:00From the Parents of Emily Cain
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_zJs8dxeL7p-1iY6cibS-w51Pj4502scYz3SHfXZzCF8_GeefT_rCTjYyWqXEgREoRckjb9WhYzOJ17WLVSi3x-bNKjDMsTfT2pK9agoy3Po9PBUh0qeTCHBv78N4zefoTI6i-Yn3o8/s1600/Emily+Cain+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_zJs8dxeL7p-1iY6cibS-w51Pj4502scYz3SHfXZzCF8_GeefT_rCTjYyWqXEgREoRckjb9WhYzOJ17WLVSi3x-bNKjDMsTfT2pK9agoy3Po9PBUh0qeTCHBv78N4zefoTI6i-Yn3o8/s320/Emily+Cain+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What a Gift<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When our daughter, Emily Cain, told us about her
interest in applying to the Ivy League Connection, we were in full
support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We knew very little about
the program but what we had heard was impressive. She worked diligently on her
essays and got herself ready for the interview. When Emily told us that she had
been accepted to the Women & Leadership Program at Brown University, we
were thrilled at the unique opportunity that we knew awaited her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The weeks prior to the trip gave us further insights
into the program and the hard working individuals that make this program so
special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The informal potluck at
ECHS was a great way to meet the other girls going on the trip and the
wonderful chaperones. Chaperones, Sewellyn Kaplan, Jackie Timmes and Kat
Williams really put everyone at ease with their relaxed presentation and open
demeanors. The lovely dinner at Boulevard was a great opportunity to meet and
speak with Brown alumni, a few of the sponsors and Charles Ramsey. Attending
the School Board meeting and standing for the photo with all the selected students,
program leaders and sponsors was an honor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPD0KBEqA9OOvHF_dCpBLj7fv3bk6d6JfZ4ievdNSRrB0j39iEOgYuAq_19nct_1cy6z6vAISZaUyEdLdvCeOVxFFzCeyVCyUZbj9oLuwcP1WB4K7jRxxFjdIDe8_BgvkuQM9Qlv8Ybc/s1600/Emily+Cain-003C-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPD0KBEqA9OOvHF_dCpBLj7fv3bk6d6JfZ4ievdNSRrB0j39iEOgYuAq_19nct_1cy6z6vAISZaUyEdLdvCeOVxFFzCeyVCyUZbj9oLuwcP1WB4K7jRxxFjdIDe8_BgvkuQM9Qlv8Ybc/s320/Emily+Cain-003C-DG.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before we knew it Emily was driving off in a shuttle
at 3:30 AM, with her cohort, heading for the airport. This was the first time
that Emily would be away from our family for three weeks; she was totally ready
and excited for the days ahead. In the days and weeks that followed we
cherished the blogs. The blogs served not only as a terrific skill for the
participants but they provided us as parents with a window into the program and
the experiences of the participants. Emily was so busy that we rarely spoke on
the phone and her text’s mostly read:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“We are soooo busy. I am having a fantastic time…” The Blogs provided
the details. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Ivy League Connection is truly a unique and
fabulous opportunity for students of WCCUSD. We would like to extend a special thank
you to Charles Ramsey, Madeline Kronenberg, and Don Gosney for their tireless
efforts and to the sponsors for making it all possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Emily Cain’s parents : Tracy Westphal and John Cain</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-46508341802444629112012-08-18T15:02:00.001-07:002012-08-18T15:02:28.089-07:00From the Parents of Jobel Vecino
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBmQdMJPA7qEvxFX-EWsBZ3eV-sEOnngRH7abfbfhcCE9UA44ZMvurw8IolO9fkTgGPiw2yZmCS0QfwrCfkZnW3-3CGFFYFH35JgPicEQefrdr6kt0vLSLkqnbe_1wP7dpKXJHYb28D4k/s1600/Jobel+Vecino+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBmQdMJPA7qEvxFX-EWsBZ3eV-sEOnngRH7abfbfhcCE9UA44ZMvurw8IolO9fkTgGPiw2yZmCS0QfwrCfkZnW3-3CGFFYFH35JgPicEQefrdr6kt0vLSLkqnbe_1wP7dpKXJHYb28D4k/s320/Jobel+Vecino+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">July 2011:
As soon as Jobel came back from Cornell’s Hotel Operations Management program,
I asked him if he wanted to apply for the Ivy League Connection again. He
answered yes and I want to take the Grand Strategy Course. Thinking it is in
Yale University which is obviously a hard program, I advised him to think it
twice and maybe he can apply for the other programs aside from Yale’s Grand
Strategies Course. But he is determined to pursue the Yale program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">March 2012:
During the interview night his dad and I were anxiously waiting inside the car.
That four hours of wait was such a nerve wracking experience. I remember
praying hard and a few times thoughts came in my mind what if he didn’t make
it. Maybe enroll him in driving class so he will be busy during summer. A group
of students then came out but Jobel didn’t show up. Later on, some adults came
out and had informed my husband that Jobel made it. As parents we have
experienced the overwhelming happiness that our son’s dream could come true. I
could still remember when he hugged his dad in happiness informing him that he
got in. How I wish I had taken a picture of that moment!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOm0HcHJv0x68gpoO9XgE_aHRxsXAHg4LckAu134YeK3gY7PiQJztfxMcrdCjuRW-r-H5oB239JheJ7vlvzLaQyIbneudnxspXmzzyrU7jQQGkJev3eMzcAXURUw8rNJAk7KFKCMBoDPY/s1600/Jobel+Vecino+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOm0HcHJv0x68gpoO9XgE_aHRxsXAHg4LckAu134YeK3gY7PiQJztfxMcrdCjuRW-r-H5oB239JheJ7vlvzLaQyIbneudnxspXmzzyrU7jQQGkJev3eMzcAXURUw8rNJAk7KFKCMBoDPY/s320/Jobel+Vecino+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After
reading the materials given to them and packing, the day finally came for him
to leave for New Haven. His first week was full of experiences and information
since they were able to visit different places and universities. Dinners were
very informative with regards to each schools admission requirements and each
schools setting. They were able to see how the schools look like. They were
given a chance to talk with the current students and admission officers as well
as ask questions about the universities. These are the special privileges that
the WCCUSD Ivy League Ambassadors can avail from joining the program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Four days
ago, he’s back from Yale equipped with knowledge and more experiences. I can
see in him that he was very happy. He said the Grand Strategies Course is the
best program for him. Each student in that program worked hard to be in and he
was very proud to represent the West Contra Costa Unified School District especially
Hercules High School. From the college visits, dinners, meeting people and
making friends—these helped him improve his personality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Together
with these experiences and the values and wisdom that he learned from home, I
could say we are confident enough that he is ready to embark in his journey for
college. It had helped him grow as a person. His desire to continue on what the
Ivy League Connection started in him is visible by his willingness to share his
experiences to the younger students in his school. He wants to help them to
become prepared for what lies ahead for the coming challenges important
especially—writing essays and preparing for the upcoming interview.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For the new
parents who wants to have their children join this program, we can rest assure
that the Ivy League Connection is the best program there is. They are very
hands on for the whole duration of the program. It would help your kids
experience college life in the east coast without compromising their safety.
And you can see once they’re back from their journey positive results will be
expected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In closing,
the whole family is very grateful to the WCCUSD’s Ivy League Connection for the
experiences that our son went through. These informative and unforgettable
experiences will not be possible if Jobel haven’t joined the program. It opened
his options to continue his college career in the East Coast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We would
like to extend our thanks and gratitude to Mr. Ramsey, Ms. Kronenberg, Don
Gosney and to all the wonderful sponsors. To Mr. Litvin and Ms. Neal and to
everyone who our son shared his journey with and to all who made this program
possible, YOU all deserve a warm applause!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Respectully,
Joselito and Belina Vecino</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-60061614509304509592012-08-18T12:36:00.000-07:002012-08-18T12:36:09.146-07:00From the Mother of Yessenia Reyna
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIdOUXJzyMrlZNIkxYqotREwjjo2r1tpeoCJZvCwy_hDgGHjn7MdSIjAfYl4o3yA5PuQE4uUgVOOogRxfS0fJXSJnjJhXvMx6qsAOOwbEpt5F1zS6rWipazG1cAjqMx2zmgr4A6rc4TlA/s1600/Yessenia+Reyna+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIdOUXJzyMrlZNIkxYqotREwjjo2r1tpeoCJZvCwy_hDgGHjn7MdSIjAfYl4o3yA5PuQE4uUgVOOogRxfS0fJXSJnjJhXvMx6qsAOOwbEpt5F1zS6rWipazG1cAjqMx2zmgr4A6rc4TlA/s320/Yessenia+Reyna+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hacer Cosas Yo No Pude Hacer; To Do Things I Was
Never Able To Do<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I remember
that cold winter day when my daughter came to me with this incredulous idea.
She told me about this program called the Ivy League Connection where they send
students to study over at the east coast for the summer. It sounded really nice
and all, but I wasn’t too trusting of the whole thing. How could I possibly
trust them with my eldest daughter for a whole month? I was about to not let
her do this when I realized how great this opportunity could be for my
daughter. In the end, I didn’t want to take this amazing opportunity away and
stop her from moving forward. Although I was still worried, I agreed to allow
my daughter to try and do these things I was never able to do as a teenager.
Once she told me she got accepted, my heart filled with so much joy. All the
hard work she put in those essays and interview finally<a href="" name="_GoBack"></a>
paid off and now she would be leaving for an entire month to go to Nashville. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNPr_hG53-ffWIReKPzCbhqiNAfRz1K1QLrZtm4JWvBVTY5VzmEpYJfW613od6FPqzvFTwASD6tB22EotQAi2sLlalCFCm4IS3gMFFQAmN2HKwXJyDZSI9UQGJbYuXUPBxT314KnEa-Y/s1600/Yessenia+Reyna+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNPr_hG53-ffWIReKPzCbhqiNAfRz1K1QLrZtm4JWvBVTY5VzmEpYJfW613od6FPqzvFTwASD6tB22EotQAi2sLlalCFCm4IS3gMFFQAmN2HKwXJyDZSI9UQGJbYuXUPBxT314KnEa-Y/s320/Yessenia+Reyna+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before she
actually left however, the ILC had this plan to let me get more familiar with
the people involved, which would help me trust them more. They had several
meetings I attended which showed me exactly what would be happening during
those 4 weeks. Everyone kindly explained this to me in detail and in a way a
worried mother would understand. I also got to meet and talk to my daughter’s
chaperone during one of these meetings. At first I was a little surprised to
see how many tattoos he had on his arms, but after meeting with him and talking
with him several times, I could see that he was the best chaperone possible,
and I really wouldn’t have asked for a better one. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Finally,
the time came for her departure. Seeing her leave, it really felt as if she was
leaving for a year of college. You could say that it prepared me for what is to
come in a few years. Overall, this program has made me become more open to
letting my daughter leave home. Even though the idea of your first child
leaving home scares most mothers like me, I know that this is what life is
about. Your child needs to experience life for themselves when they go off to
college. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I would
like to take the time to thank the Ivy League Connection for all that they have
done for my daughter. Thanks to the ILC, I have finally opened my eyes to see
the wonderful opportunities that are out there for her and a bunch of other
students as well. Even now, it is still hard to imagine a program like this
exists for the students of this district. It is absolutely amazing to think of
how much work is put into this program and I hope it grows from here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Thank you,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dora Reyna</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-63419227663804262752012-08-18T12:27:00.002-07:002012-08-18T12:39:46.386-07:00From the Mother of Chris Han<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">“A Divine Connection”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I thank all of the adults
involved for their gifts and generosity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I thank them all for the
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">How has the Ivy League
Connection affected me?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">The experience has been
excellent and extraordinary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">To witness and to see how it
has transformed Christopher and me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I will be forever grateful,
for eternity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">He has grown more in
maturity,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I have no doubt he can
handle the freedom, with the responsibility.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I do not need to fear,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">If he decides to attend
college far from here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">Because, I know I am in his
heart, no matter where.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I thank all the caring
adults in this program,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">Because of God and His
angels<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">You were able to be a part
of something very special.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">The opportunities and
choices, there is no limit,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">You may not know it, or even
realize it yet,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">But, I expect, God to show
us all, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">‘How Much Better Can This
Get?’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I am proud of what
Christopher has accomplished,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">And whatever he decides to
do, or whoever he becomes,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I will always cherish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">For all I desire is for him
to be happy and at peace,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">May this always be my
heart-felt and sacred wish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">I will always be a part of
him, and he will always be a part of me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">And I hope when people see
us together, they will ask us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">“Why are you so happy?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">Then, I can answer with all
sincerity and honesty,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">“Because of the Ivy League
Connection,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">We both have bonded with the
most divine connection,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">And it has helped both of us
be....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">Who we were born to be!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">By: Jade Jeong<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">(Christopher’s Mom)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><br /></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-91370762362091851562012-08-18T10:34:00.001-07:002012-08-18T10:34:16.982-07:00From the Parents of Alexander Wing
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5wcqj74S3tIYh-z6R17q8qW3-H4TPy4M56gfYgOJmUspg-6WtFzt5OSWVzj_Gkcsu-QIpK63rjJ82LyrmomAWWcX0F7yKwLb1d8Sqi043tMoQ7IRQ0lR4VCLfs_XKZNQuBhLRQQ2l-M/s1600/Alex+Wing+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5wcqj74S3tIYh-z6R17q8qW3-H4TPy4M56gfYgOJmUspg-6WtFzt5OSWVzj_Gkcsu-QIpK63rjJ82LyrmomAWWcX0F7yKwLb1d8Sqi043tMoQ7IRQ0lR4VCLfs_XKZNQuBhLRQQ2l-M/s320/Alex+Wing+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">Our son, Alexander, had the most
memorable, exciting summer participating in the ILC program at Cornell
University. The ILC gave him numerous opportunities, starting at the very
beginning with the essay writing and interviews for the program, the
orientations and the chance to meet and interact with the supporters of the
ILC, Cornell alumni and present Cornell students at the Bay Area Cornell
dinner. The dinner was a wonderful opportunity for Alexander to interact with
people he did not know and to engage with them on an adult level. Prospect
Restaurant was so elegant and the food was delicious - a perfect venue for the
event.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">The college visits on the East Coast
were very well organized and they were most helpful and eye-opening. Participating
in the college tours with fellow high school students, and not with his
parents, put Alexander in a position to be independent and to figure out for
himself what is important for him in choosing a college. He is definitely
interested in pursuing colleges on the East Coast and the ILC program gave him
a taste for college life in the east.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5wcqj74S3tIYh-z6R17q8qW3-H4TPy4M56gfYgOJmUspg-6WtFzt5OSWVzj_Gkcsu-QIpK63rjJ82LyrmomAWWcX0F7yKwLb1d8Sqi043tMoQ7IRQ0lR4VCLfs_XKZNQuBhLRQQ2l-M/s1600/Alex+Wing+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5wcqj74S3tIYh-z6R17q8qW3-H4TPy4M56gfYgOJmUspg-6WtFzt5OSWVzj_Gkcsu-QIpK63rjJ82LyrmomAWWcX0F7yKwLb1d8Sqi043tMoQ7IRQ0lR4VCLfs_XKZNQuBhLRQQ2l-M/s320/Alex+Wing+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">Once at Cornell, the support from the
ILC and the fantastic guidance from Mr. Chan-Law and the Cornell cohort enabled
Alexander to learn and grow. He thrived in the academic and social environment
at Cornell and he has called this experience for him “life-changing”. The
requirement of a daily blog was an inspired addition. Not only did it enable
Alexander to reflect on his day, despite how busy he was with his coursework,
but it also allowed us at home to follow his activities and get a sense of how
he felt about his experiences. The “Freedom and Justice” class surpassed his
expectations by providing him with the knowledge to think, defend and support
his opinions and to express his ideas verbally and in writing. He received a
solid introduction to Plato, John Locke, Communism, Socialism, among other
schools of thought, and an understanding of how they relate to present-day
thinking, society, government and law! That is quite an accomplishment in only
3 weeks !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">The ILC program is phenomenal and
words cannot express the appreciation we have for Mr. Ramsey and Ms. Kronenberg
for coming up with this vision, bringing it to fruition and for continuing to
make it better. A huge thank you to Don Gosney for his tireless efforts in
keeping our kids in line, holding them accountable and for arranging the
thousands of small but important details that it takes to run and organize this
program every year. We would like to thank Mr. Chan-Law for being an amazing
chaperone, for keeping our kids safe and stimulated and for being their friend
and mentor. And finally, to all of the very generous supporters of the ILC -
none of this could happen without you and we thank you for giving our son this
opportunity of a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">Yakesun Wing and Debbie Hayakawa-Wing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-78006602300467527252012-08-18T08:51:00.003-07:002012-08-18T08:51:58.605-07:00From the Parents of Eric Wilson
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTvNPVUURMUVwN0L5OVJLO3B5qjdBNL26c17A_D4gbPwcPTdhfHAsTQWLzRG_Dw40f3cLb1n5qwpqmqK5ZeF_IwEA-uEG25QMYDEWB0I11o60k_gT2kaDNzOS79RQTofqyLJLLsjR5Pg/s1600/Eric+Wilson+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTvNPVUURMUVwN0L5OVJLO3B5qjdBNL26c17A_D4gbPwcPTdhfHAsTQWLzRG_Dw40f3cLb1n5qwpqmqK5ZeF_IwEA-uEG25QMYDEWB0I11o60k_gT2kaDNzOS79RQTofqyLJLLsjR5Pg/s320/Eric+Wilson+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">Overall, we
thought the ILC program was excellent. We knew nothing about the ILC prior to
Eric’s applying, and we were so pleased to learn that such a program exists in
WCCUSD. It was an outstanding opportunity, and we feel very gratified that the
district is putting this level of effort into challenging our high-achieving
students. A program like this has the potential to raise the bar for everyone. We
are grateful for the efforts of those who run the program, as well as the
sponsors who invest in our district.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">Eric enjoyed
the Freedom and Justice course at Cornell and was challenged to work at a
higher level. Through the lectures and especially the discussion sections, he
gained a broader perspective on learning that we are sure he will apply to the
rest of high school and college. The visits to the many eastern universities
were a great part of the program as well and really kicked off the college consideration
process for him. It is a rare opportunity to meet admissions officers and
alumni and receive guidance on the admissions process! Eric is strongly
considering applying to Cornell, Penn, and perhaps others. Without the ILC, I
believe his consideration of these schools would have been very unlikely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC76WO-wfnwnfY45BIshqPBJbY3Bxw3iblZnWPJUdOJFRM0l94TMHkIhqTfGR0uj2iOHlPCGiPclwS7BzoAINlbIOV0ZJdRPRrQWko5EYniZQA5q571ecTP4SJhq_8KuQxyGGum0gA1KQ/s1600/Eric+Wilson+Headshot+3C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC76WO-wfnwnfY45BIshqPBJbY3Bxw3iblZnWPJUdOJFRM0l94TMHkIhqTfGR0uj2iOHlPCGiPclwS7BzoAINlbIOV0ZJdRPRrQWko5EYniZQA5q571ecTP4SJhq_8KuQxyGGum0gA1KQ/s320/Eric+Wilson+Headshot+3C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">Eric also
enjoyed the support and company of his chaperone, Mr. Chan-Law. Eric thought
the level of oversight was just right, and he enjoyed the extra trips and
activities, such as to Colgate and Cooperstown, that Mr. Chan-Law provided for
the cohort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">In short, a
great experience and opportunity. Thanks again to the ILC leaders, team, and
sponsors who make this possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt;">Patrick and
Amy Wilson</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-71509847653265419262012-08-09T10:53:00.000-07:002012-08-18T10:44:47.574-07:00From the Father of Rachael Redlo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnxbfNXXvsZuk92KStiF_GyZJ9Jg0j7Q2xKpk0J93bOrZ9rtwq7iHKlp26VqXQoptNbIxBqac4A_jiYP3z5Z4TVbJKuB-bIDbqAUEMPbMTFJUVCXxlKflbdL0Mp46PABDX3UWh53dA4M/s1600/Rachael+Redlo+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvnxbfNXXvsZuk92KStiF_GyZJ9Jg0j7Q2xKpk0J93bOrZ9rtwq7iHKlp26VqXQoptNbIxBqac4A_jiYP3z5Z4TVbJKuB-bIDbqAUEMPbMTFJUVCXxlKflbdL0Mp46PABDX3UWh53dA4M/s320/Rachael+Redlo+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">We
want to thank you and all the supporters of The Ivy League Connection for the
wonderful experience our daughter Rachael had this past summer. Rachael’s
experience, from our perspective, helped her grow and mature as she prepares
for College next year. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">Some
reflections:</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">The
itinerary was well organized and we appreciated the fact that it involved both
parent and student involvement. The college experience to be successful
involves all parties. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">The
pre dinners and meetings with previous alumni was very helpful and gave us a
flavor and sense of the experience. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The
Cornell Program was challenging with too many students in the class at once in
a packed lecture setting. The time frame was exhausting at times. The students
had class morning afternoons and nights, Sunday included. I thought that it
might have been better to not be so compressed and maybe give the students a
chance to experience other resources and opportunities at Cornell. The
experience for most Ivy League colleges, however may be similar, so it may not
have been bad to feel some pressure to finish a great deal of work on time.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgEG7aV8xYNAeJFIytbks8lsGP4ZibNSM2cmcD_Q6kL7vNV6mHHvzwvTGCgFRHQ64tPopjKhE5RDedH-hqACdJvOdiLw0GtzLlFKOWcPqjry9M4PorDn5CRbXDxwhhtKVHSARnQ17oaU/s1600/Rachael+Redlo+Headshot-3C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgEG7aV8xYNAeJFIytbks8lsGP4ZibNSM2cmcD_Q6kL7vNV6mHHvzwvTGCgFRHQ64tPopjKhE5RDedH-hqACdJvOdiLw0GtzLlFKOWcPqjry9M4PorDn5CRbXDxwhhtKVHSARnQ17oaU/s320/Rachael+Redlo+Headshot-3C.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">The
opportunity to visit other external campuses and spend the first few days on
field trips was great. I think it gave the students a chance to experience
other Ivy League schools. It was also good for the students to experience other
cities specifically on the East Coast where cultural differences may exist. California
at times can be very different from the East Coast.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">Lastly,
I would mention the advantage of the students talking to each other and
reporting their activities in addition to talking in front of groups about
their experiences and observations. I think this is all part of the learning
experience and a great opportunity for our students to express themselves and
practice their communication skills. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">Again,
we want to thank you and all the supporters, Board members, contributors and
support staff that made this experience so important and memorable for Rachael
and the rest of the students.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">Thanks,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bob
Redlo</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Madeline Kronenberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00809038721402994691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-24908490746585547452012-08-08T23:59:00.001-07:002012-08-08T23:59:12.687-07:00From the Parents of Hannah Lee Pablo<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkC9IJmlSUJhlz5gwbywNwNvCdkVWF3RN2MctXdQzcMIQjpBFdWkTQB6DQ8FI-ksUqBKzfoLJQ5p-lWb8i0MMUpCpnvYDvYwHj6L7QHVN75qUZXkQJ2swl1qknxz-klfZoiGBQoAG4RE/s1600/Hannah+Lee+Pablo+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkC9IJmlSUJhlz5gwbywNwNvCdkVWF3RN2MctXdQzcMIQjpBFdWkTQB6DQ8FI-ksUqBKzfoLJQ5p-lWb8i0MMUpCpnvYDvYwHj6L7QHVN75qUZXkQJ2swl1qknxz-klfZoiGBQoAG4RE/s320/Hannah+Lee+Pablo+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The moment our
daughter, Hannah Lee, mentioned to us that she would apply for the Ivy League
Connection, without hesitation and doubt my wife and I gave to her our blessings.
We knew that it would not be an easy undertaking she would undergo also
considering the experience of our son, Henry III who applied a few years back
and did not make it. However, we saw in our daughter her desire and
determination to experience the program. We believe she heard a lot of the
memorable experiences from those who already underwent the program and how
those experiences impacted their lives. They believed in her talent and ability
and encouraged her to apply. She received a lot of support from them and on several
occasions they gave her tips and the preparation she needed in her application.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Preparing for
this undertaking, Hannah Lee, showed a lot of patience researching for the
program she would apply to. She connected the program given to her to her long
time dream of what she wants to be in the future. She had a lot of questions in
mind and sought several people for some answers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of those she asked for help and assistance, we believed they
gave it to her joyfully and supportively. Patiently and consistently she
prepared herself for the battle ahead of her. She admitted it was not an easy
one, but along the process of preparations we noticed she had grown maturely. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As her parents
and taking some cue from her brother, Henry, we all gave our utmost support and
prayers. I could vividly remember on the day of her interview, I saw in my
daughter both nervousness and confidence and when I dropped her that morning in
school, she just uttered to me, “Dad, pray for me”. The rest I would say, a
moment as a father will always remember about her daughter. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">She arrived at
the library at the start of the interview at 8 AM, and she was the last
applicant to be interviewed. I could just imagine the anxiousness of waiting
she had for almost four hours. But it paid off; she was accepted. It was a joy
of celebration for all of us in the family, and it was the beginning of a new
journey in the life of our daughter and the experience that awaited her at
Vanderbilt University.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGo-OTGOKElhGLkdWmVlJ_p3PW5oHpJM0eQxtvvZUG9i-SgMQRj6sjcaa24u5XG2EYF0bBTnP9pKb9ZsXiExlN_He1zD6Npgf1k2sHoGRA1EMMNrw6U2AkNmRq3zamHw_BEIfsDXnAhw8/s1600/Hannah+Lee+Pablo+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGo-OTGOKElhGLkdWmVlJ_p3PW5oHpJM0eQxtvvZUG9i-SgMQRj6sjcaa24u5XG2EYF0bBTnP9pKb9ZsXiExlN_He1zD6Npgf1k2sHoGRA1EMMNrw6U2AkNmRq3zamHw_BEIfsDXnAhw8/s320/Hannah+Lee+Pablo+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When she
received all the necessary papers from the ILC: forms to fill in, medical
requirements, rules, guidelines to follow, and parents participation we made it
a priority to submit all requirements before the deadline. She gave us also a
copy of the calendar of activities and the important dates where we, as parents,
needed to attend. She asked me to attend the Dinner at One Market and asked my
wife to attend the rest of the orientation activities. The moment she received
the email about the dinner, I asked for a copy of it for me to apply for a day
off at work. My wife and I were so excited and looking forward for those days
where we were asked to attend to meet those people who made this program
possible. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The dinner at
One Market was one occasion I will never forget. I felt humbled meeting the
coordinators, chaperones, and the sponsors of this program as well as the other
students and their parents. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I may
not have had the chance to meet all the sponsors and alumni but I felt grateful
to all of them for their support and dedication to a cause like the Ivy League Connection.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Another
excitement I had that night was to hear Hannah speak as their designated
speaker of the group—which she accepted confidently. She spoke confidently, full
of expectations on her mind. We believed she spoke from her heart and conveyed
to all, the feelings of what it feels to be a part of the ILC program. And of
course, we all cannot forget the sumptuous dinner we had.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On my wife’s part,
she attended the meetings on orientation. She even told me that she too learned
a lot from the orientation and felt excited to get all the requirements and things
needed in this program. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There were
several occasions where both parents had to attend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were able to attend the Pinole City Council meeting where
the ILC participants were recognized<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>and met the city officials of Pinole. Another big event was at the West
Contra Costa Board meeting where again, the ILC participants were recognized
before the officers and the community as well. Then we had this BIG picture
taken with all of the ILC participants with their parents and chaperones.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the days
came close to their trip to Vanderbilt University, so did our relationship as a
family. It drew us closer to one another. It would be the first time, Hannah
will be away from us for almost a month. My wife and I could not express well
how it felt to be away from Hannah for several days. She had been away for us a
week at most, when she and her brother Henry attended the Pipe Organ Encounter,
a yearly summer activity to other states for both of them as church pipe organ
scholars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A few days
before their trip we, the parents of the group, had a meeting with their
chaperone, Mr. Mannix. He was so caring to the group and he assured us parents that
our children will be in good hands throughout their trip to the East Coast. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The send off
day on that early Monday morning was full of well wishes, hugs, kisses and
prayers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Their trips to
Duke University, Georgetown University, and the University of Pennsylvania were
all amazing experiences they had. They celebrated the Fourth of July watching
the beautiful fireworks in Washington D.C. They also visited several important
landmarks. These tours and visits will always be remembered by them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Vanderbilt
summer activities of Hannah Lee were so full of learning, insights, meeting new
friends, teachers, proctors, gaining new experiences, and a fulfillment<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of memories she will always treasure. We
saw her grow maturely as she gained a better understanding of what courses she
wants to take when she will graduate from high school. She shared with us her
experiences meeting different officials of the universities they visited, how
they were welcoming and engaging, and the different tips they learned on how to
apply for admission to a university. She, too, had a great glimpse of what a
university is like and a life in a university. Every day we read her blog and
her cohorts’. We read their blogs with joy and for Hannah Lee her friends in
the church who already missed her, had also enjoyed reading her blogs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The pictures
she sent us were all manifestations of how she enjoyed her stay in the university.
Her pictures will be a treasure she will one day proudly share with others. Her
experiences were priceless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When we met
her again after 27 days, we knew our Hannah Lee had changed: more mature, more
responsible, and most of all she had a deeper appreciation of the value and
importance of learning, experiences, friendship, and fun. She is still
searching within herself to see if a college outside of California is right for
her, but she will keep her mind open to the wonderful possibilities out there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My wife and I
will always be ever thankful to the coordinators of the Ivy League Connection: Mr.
Charles Ramsey, Don Gosney, Ms. Kronenberg, and, Mr. Mannix, just to name a few.
Our prayers to your vision and mission in this program is that it will be
realized and be achieved. To the sponsors, without them I believe this won’t
materialize; may you continue to support this program. To Hannah Lee’s fellow
cohorts whom I believe had created an “inner” family within them; to the
parents, my wife and I will always treasure your friendship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Henry E. Pablo, Jr. and Josephine P. Pablo</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-57000632724182222562012-08-06T16:03:00.001-07:002012-08-09T00:33:03.584-07:00From the Mother of Chloe Alston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYh1pyZ6O4GgEu9NXWWcNKg56kbdvrUTfpPqHFL-r04tuIZwdpjNMzn5UeByhTTfEcle5gVyw2sNx-j1AhiXUL0c3qfO1b56ELjdRfG9vbjc7eO4Vx2yTX5XMAEJ0TxSJiExUBntgnUQ/s1600/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYh1pyZ6O4GgEu9NXWWcNKg56kbdvrUTfpPqHFL-r04tuIZwdpjNMzn5UeByhTTfEcle5gVyw2sNx-j1AhiXUL0c3qfO1b56ELjdRfG9vbjc7eO4Vx2yTX5XMAEJ0TxSJiExUBntgnUQ/s320/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In Chloe’s sophomore year, I
had heard about a program called the Ivy League Connection (ILC) and thought
that Chloe should definitely be a part of it during her Junior year (I didn’t
know it was offered to Sophomores). In the Winter Semester of her Junior year,
Chloe came home one day and told me she had missed out on her opportunity to
apply to the ILC program because she had not been invited to the informational
meeting. Our hearts sank, as it was something she was really looking forward
to. She tried gracefully and yet unsuccessfully to let it go, but then a new
opportunity arose. I had spoken to Chloe’s 8th grade math teacher, Ms. Nakahara, who was one of the ILC interviewers
about Chloe’s disappointment, she got in touch with Don Gosney and mentioned Chloe’s
situation, and we learned that a new program – the Social Justice Program at
the University of Pennsylvania – was being offered and that she could still
apply. It was a stroke of luck!!! Chloe got right on it, wrote her essays, was
interviewed and got in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It sounds easy, but it wasn’t.
There are some who believe that the students who apply and go through this
process are subject to criticisms and held to expectations that are too high,
however, I believe the strenuousness actually helped Chloe understand the
brevity of this academic opportunity and what would be expected of her in a
college-level atmosphere. She began to scrutinize her actions knowing that
depending on them, doors to her future dreams could either open or close. The
leaders of the ILC enabled Chloe to be exposed to and embrace possibilities for
her future that she had not yet fully considered herself to be a part of. She
realized she needed to work hard, stay focused, and be determined to be chosen
and maintain her position. It is a program that opens the eyes of our students
here in the WCCUSD beyond their everyday reality. It inspires kids to reach
beyond their comfort zone and strive for something higher. The continued
expectation by the ILC of the students to communicate the experience through
blogging and to be representatives for the district also pushes our students to
publically share and keep up the momentum of all that they have learned and
gained from their experiences—to become a voice for opportunity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaelU0ubO7kgSyjDY8v0eOCkZjysFoIu93Yb3cfmku1yzI_s6WuD1NxxT7KY5TYxDjlQITZ2ud_VprIyaNIvsB6KPil5vvjHv6nC1nnHxcp14k0wOSY9n4DLKjbnboET2ruJRWI5gTd8w/s1600/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaelU0ubO7kgSyjDY8v0eOCkZjysFoIu93Yb3cfmku1yzI_s6WuD1NxxT7KY5TYxDjlQITZ2ud_VprIyaNIvsB6KPil5vvjHv6nC1nnHxcp14k0wOSY9n4DLKjbnboET2ruJRWI5gTd8w/s320/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chloe’s experience in Professor
Lamas’ Social Justice Program has expanded her way of thinking. It has
furthered her ability to think critically about the world around her and to
take an active role in changing herself and her environment for the better. She
was in a class with 30 international students, studying under the guidance of
teachers from all over the world. She was exposed to world-wide issues of
poverty, racism, sexism, capitalism, amongst others and taught strategies by
which to analyze these issues locally and communicate solutions. The strategies
provided also encouraged her to question her own thinking and how she has
viewed and now views herself and her place in the world. The Social Justice
Program is an invaluable addition to the ILC as it enables our students to
actively find their voice and learn to interact in the communities in which
they and their families live.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I know a lot of hard work goes
into the ILC, and I am so grateful to all those who participate in creating and
maintaining this incredible opportunity for our students in the WCCUSD. Don,
Charles, and Madeline for spearheading the program, all of the interviewers for
taking the time out to care about our kids, Ian for being a fantastic
chaperone, the University of Pennsylvania and donors for sponsoring Chloe, and
Professor Lamas and Michael for providing incredible guidance and opening up
your hearts! Thank you all!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kai Weber (Chloe’s mom)</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Madeline Kronenberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00809038721402994691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-64857600117624242132012-08-05T21:32:00.003-07:002012-08-09T00:50:59.774-07:00From the Parents of Madelaine Pine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEkN9cUOJpPpU-Rph81RN7TddrJO2nfT1BQVCVjLCpkrDRhUF-NAPzfxloreNW-78PiSi_9TBMbTMRB1rd_CDA1xW-W1saGZZaxfs7UgIopnHM42GOx4bLv_z8jRX5phQCjtaY3gYfPY/s1600/Madelaine+Pine+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggEkN9cUOJpPpU-Rph81RN7TddrJO2nfT1BQVCVjLCpkrDRhUF-NAPzfxloreNW-78PiSi_9TBMbTMRB1rd_CDA1xW-W1saGZZaxfs7UgIopnHM42GOx4bLv_z8jRX5phQCjtaY3gYfPY/s320/Madelaine+Pine+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When Madelaine first
approached us about applying for an Ivy League Connection scholarship, I have
to admit, we were skeptical. The course, Women & Leadership at the Brown
Leadership Institute, sounded like a natural for her, but we were dubious that
this could be a full scholarship, and there was no way we could afford even
part of an Ivy League summer program, much less transportation and all the
other costs that immediately came to mind. As usual, Maddie had done her
research, and presented us with details of the program. We were quickly
convinced that this was an impressive opportunity for her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Soon Maddie was diving into
yet more research to write her thoughtful essays. She found out what was
appropriate dress for an interview, and practiced answering sample questions
slowly and clearly, despite her nerves. It was clear from the start how
motivated she was to take advantage of this chance to study and travel on the
East Coast this summer. When she was informed that she had earned a spot in the
Women & Leadership cohort, she was elated, and so were we.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In the months that followed,
Maddie had the opportunity to meet Brown alumni who were gracious and generous with
their time and experience. During an elegant dinner at Boulevard, she met two
recent graduates who had studied neuroscience, an area in which she is
particularly interested. She also had the opportunity to hone her skills at
polite dinner conversation and professional demeanor; valuable practice for a
normally casual, “laid back” young woman.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The 3 weeks Maddie spent at
Brown and touring other universities in the area were some of the most eye-opening
weeks of her young life. We spoke or FaceTimed almost daily, and each day I
could see her imagination expanding to consider new and different ideas and
options for her future. She was exposed to a wide array of people and places.
Her roommate was a young woman from Japan who lives in Indonesia. Her
classmates were from Manhattan, Southern California, Guatemala—all over the
world. Their diverse life experiences and perspectives gave Maddie a glimpse
beyond the rather small town of El Cerrito. Her professor and the guests she
invited to speak to and work with the cohort were exceptionally knowledgeable
and kind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Upon returning home, Maddie's
commitment to implementing her Action Plan, the El Cerrito High School Young
Voters' Club, has only grown stronger. She has been looking up resources
and recruiting likely members and co-leaders even as she fine-tunes her newly
expanded college applications list. This experience has given her a broader
view of what is possible for her future—not just for college, but in her life.
She has higher hopes and higher expectations as a result of her involvement in
The Ivy League Connection and we are deeply indebted to Mr. Ramsey, Ms.
Kronenberg, Mr. Gosney, and the patient and enthusiastic chaperones who all
made this wonderful experience possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Anne-Marie and Tim Pine</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Madeline Kronenberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00809038721402994691noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1338478802926223804.post-50403837906857579102012-08-05T14:49:00.002-07:002012-08-18T12:43:02.721-07:00From the Parents of Narges Sahibzada
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRh8yArbjfej8jpZBTJvn5JkHwRZw2RwN8Z03nu6Y3F0KqxFUWmdPwuwQUwj3wdIZM1J_BTPkHiPLhNlPsJp5f0iZ-7Y38jqdGUdTBnOLOI2Z4CnBzcGU6iq7gzwlQeueeukUGGiF1Gk/s1600/Narges+Sahibzada+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRh8yArbjfej8jpZBTJvn5JkHwRZw2RwN8Z03nu6Y3F0KqxFUWmdPwuwQUwj3wdIZM1J_BTPkHiPLhNlPsJp5f0iZ-7Y38jqdGUdTBnOLOI2Z4CnBzcGU6iq7gzwlQeueeukUGGiF1Gk/s320/Narges+Sahibzada+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I had originally heard about
this program from my daughter, Narges. When she first told me about the Ivy
League Connection, I must admit that I was rather skeptical of it; it was hard
for me to believe that such a program to help our kids and their future
endeavors existed. However, by attending the various meetings and dinners I
found out about the greatness of this program. I was happy to discover that the
group of students that were selected to participate in this program were all
very diverse and all from different religions and ethnicities. This entire
program is a reflection of how much this district cares for our kids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Upon talking to Narges after
her return, I noticed how much she grew from visiting all the different
universities and talking to different students from all parts of the country.
She seemed much more certain of her decisions for her future after she came back.
My wife and I are very thankful to all those who made this opportunity possible
for our daughter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mohammad
and Nasima Sahibzada</span><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Madeline Kronenberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00809038721402994691noreply@blogger.com0