My name is Darwin R. Garrido. I am a junior at New Jersey City University, majoring in biology. I aspire to attend medical school and become an orthopedic surgeon.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your generous gift. Thank you so much for helping students like me. I could never explain how grateful I am for your support because it will help me stay focused on my studies and inspire me to do my best academically.

Moreover, my major in biology is only the first step in accomplishing my dreams. I want to become a doctor because I want to dedicate my time to researching new cures to help heal people.

One of my biggest motivations is my older brother, who lives in Guatemala. He has a rare muscular disease that has deteriorated his health since he was young. Although he was able to walk when he was 9 years old, his disease got worse, and he stopped walking when he was 21 years old. My mom and I were the ones who looked out for him the most. It was sad and painful when I left Guatemala in search of a better future for him, my family and me.

When I got to this country, the last thing I was going to do was study since I needed to provide for my mother and brother. Two years later, I was encouraged by a coworker to attend school. I started taking courses to learn English and got my GED. I am now proud to say that I attend NJCU and am currently in the Honors Program. The reason I chose NJCU was because of the small class sizes and the ability to connect with my professors.

I am currently on my own, and it is hard for me to keep up with school while working a full-time job. That’s why I am deeply grateful for your financial assistance. It will allow me to continue to attend NJCU and focus on maintaining my high GPA of 3.9.

Being a resident on campus and in Jersey City has allowed me to volunteer in research with our Science Department in our new Science Building. It has also allowed me to become part of the Residence Hall Association E-Board and a member of the Dreamers Club. I am also an ambassador for the Premed Scene. Additionally, I volunteer as an emergency medical responder (EMR). Volunteering as an EMR provides me with the opportunity to help others and hands-on experience for my future career as a doctor.

I know it will take me years to complete my career as a doctor, but I am sure that I will finish it one day. Thank you for investing in me. I promise I will make you proud. Thank you so much!