Helping International Student-Athletes Transition
Warning Long Post...
I’ve never done anything like this or even shared local or national organizations on Facebook for celebrating my birthday, with the exception of QPS Foundation (one of my true passions); however, for my birthday next month, I am asking that in lieu of birthday gifts, messages, or lovely experiences (not because I am not overly grateful for those) I want to invite you to give to a recently personal passion I have discovered.
As a former college, student-athlete, I am forever appreciative of the experiences I was granted at QU, even after a career ending injury. Thanks to a supportive family, academic and athletic scholarships, and a dedicated system of support from teammates, coaches, and friends, my student-athlete experience is something I cannot articulate or put into words how grateful I am to have been a student-athlete at QU.
Recently, I met two international student-athletes, who have finished their time atJWCC and are headed to Cumberland University in Tennessee. Yasmin, a soccer player and Caroline, a volleyball player have been doing odd jobs and working extremely hard to save money for extra expenses they will have, outside of their scholarships. I must say I have fallen in love with these two young ladies. They work extremely hard, are so respectful, and demonstrate a sense of respect for America that is sadly too often missing in today’s society. I’ve gotten to know them well and love hearing about their time growing up in Brazil and their dream to be able to stay in “this great country”. They have inspired me and have provided me with a greater perspective of just how blessed I have truly been.
With all this being said, they leave this week. They have an amazing host family who has generously offered their van; however, other generous Quincy residents have offered to send donated furniture, such as beds, dressers, etc. The challenge is to get all the donations to Tennessee. They’ve been working for me and I have yet to give them a dime, as it is all going to be saved for necessities once they get to Tennessee. I will be stewarding any donations to make sure it is utilized appropriately as they embark on a new college in a new town.
I have many passions, clearly education and athletics are two passions I hold near and dear to my heart. I often see on Facebook, generous individuals who set-up birthday giving events for local and national associations- what a wonderful way to give back! This ask, is a little more personal and all funds donated will be directly used for necessary travel/moving, any additional necessary items, and books, living expenses, etc. I will be in contact with the girls regularly to help them manage money they have earned and any potential donations.
Thank you if you’ve read to here... as it is an extremely long post, but something I am passionate about and happy to help two wonderful young ladies transition successfully to their new school. Again, their appreciation, respect, and work ethic is like nothing I have ever witnessed and it has made me more grateful for opportunities I’ve been granted, hence why I want to help them make the move successfully with all the generous donations from our wonderful Quincy community and help them to be fiscal stewards of any monies they’ve earned or potential donations.
Again, this is the first time I’ve ever done something like this, but it is heavy on my heart and I’m passionate about the two student-athletes being as successful as possible and fulfill their dream to eventually become U.S. citizens.
If you have any questions, feel free to message me. Thank you in advance for considering to donate financially or by giving furniture or items they may need. I know a microwave is something they are looking for... and we know all college students need a microwave.
Thank you again to those who have hired them to work and those willing to help by donating goods or financial donations. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Love to all,
Michaela
