Christopher Holmes
Myself Third Spirit of New York 2003 Scholarship Winner
Abraham Lincoln High School
Kingsborough Community College
"Christopher is an exceptional young man who takes his studies seriously. An indication of his academic success is the fact that Christopher's poetry has been published three times in three different publications. He was nominated for Poet of the Year in 2002 and 2003. In addition, Christopher is an accomplished musician who entertains his fellow students with his talent by participating in the Concert Band. In his activities with the Key Club, he has worked at a soup kitchen, taken part in several different community functions that benefit children and donated his time towards editing articles for the Women's Press Collective. High school brought about many challenges for Christopher; however, he was able to overcome many obstacles and develop a true sense of maturity. Once Christopher puts his mind to something, he follows through with dedication and focus."
—Renee Coppola, Guidance Counselor
Work, Volunteer, and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Volunteer, Coney Island Hospital
- Volunteer, Marine Park Halloween Walk
- Volunteer, Soup Kitchen
- Volunteer, Abraham Lincoln High School
Excerpts from Christopher's Essay
American values are something precious to us. Everybody strives to be successful and become wealthy or famous. Two more important American values that have recently climbed their way up the list are nationalism and patriotism. Most people who live in the United States are proud to say they do, and they are even more proud to show how much they love this country.
Giving back is one way someone would show pride in his or her country. On September 11, 2001, the entire world changed. Everyone felt the shock of that tragedy, but no one felt it more than those who live in New York. On that day, I almost lost my grandmother. My father finally found her wandering the streets of Manhattan. The fear that crept through my body was an eye opener. When my grandmother was found, I let out a sigh of relief. I then realized thousands of people would not be breathing that sigh of relief. From that day on, I was inspired and motivated to help out anywhere I could. New Yorkers fought on through the face of adversity and although many lost irreplaceable love, none of us lost faith in our country.
I proceeded to do a lot of volunteer work through my school. This was enjoyable because I was able to help those less fortunate than me. I believe that putting others' needs before your own is a righteous act. To dedicate your time to community service or donate your money to charities is a selfless act that is rewarded with a feeling of success and helpfulness. Community service merges the American values of success and nationalism into one useful skill. These experiences allowed me to learn how vulnerable all people can be and how thankful I am to be able to help.
