Class Scholar: 1976

Kelvin Nguyen, Class of 2011

Bio
Thank You Letter

To the Class of 1976,

I am Kelvin Nguyen, one of the fortunate medical students with the honor to receive the Class of 1976 scholarship. When I opened by email inbox and learned that I was awarded the scholarship, my mouth just dropped. I definitely did not see it coming. Just a few weeks ago, I was talking to Patrick in the Financial Aid Office about taking out a private loan, so that I could afford the expenses for my residency applications and interview travels. The scholarship came as if someone had informed your class about my situation. It was too early for Santa to pay a visit or listen to my wish! There is no better timing than this! I have told my parents about the scholarship, and they would like to say “thank you” to all of you for your support.

I will use the scholarship to pay for my residency applications and will not have to activate a private loan. Wherever I will end up in this process, I would like to use this letter to show my gratitude to every single member of your class who has helped pave my career path. One day, I will follow your steps to create scholarships to support medical students who rise above hardship to achieve their goals.

Nine years ago, I stepped out from LAX as an immigrant who was not sure how his future would be. Now, in about half a year, I will officially become a physician. The journey to reach this chapter of my life has been eventful! When I attended a community college, a counselor said to me that it would be impossible for an immigrant of my age to be admitted to a medical school. I am glad I was stubborn enough and did not listen to him; however, if it were not for the support from people like you, my dream to be a physician would never have come true. Thank you for the scholarship! Thank you for your generosity! Last but not least, thank you for your help to let me live my dream and make the impossible possible!

Sincerely,

Kelvin Nguyen