Jurmain Wielingen
Myself Third Spirit of New York 2008 Scholarship Winner
Bronx Academy of Letters
Hostos Community College
"I have been Jurmain's College Counselor for the past two years. In that time, he has proven himself one of the most motivated, hard working, and compassionate students I have worked with. Because of Jurmain's strength of character, you would never know about the personal struggles he was facing. During his most difficult times, there was one thing that remained constant: Jurmain realized that there were other people out there who were worse off. It was this awareness that pushed [him] to continue volunteering even through his times of difficulty. He spends 2 days a month helping the homeless. Jurmain knows that giving back to his community is a worthwhile endeavor. It is this compassion that he brings to his service and all that he does that makes Jurmain an ideal candidate to receive this scholarship."
—Jessica Steinberg, College Counselor
Work, Volunteer, and Extra-Curricular Activities
- Volunteer, R.E.A.D. Program
- Volunteer, New York Cares
Excerpts from Jurmain's Essay
My father being a World Trade Center survivor, has made me a better person. This experience showed me that life should never be taken for granted. I have learned that I should do less complaining and more providing. I'm thankful to be able to call out "Daddy," and know that he is here. Many people lost loved ones, [and] this made me want to give back to people who are in need.
Joining New York Cares changed my point of view towards life. In my sophomore and junior years of high school, I fed the homeless and participated in clothing drives. I also went to shelters and helped set up beds for people who struggle. My junior year, I became a team leader at my school for the New York Cares program. I felt proud for my entire school to give back to my community. I have also participated in the R.E.A.D. Program at P.S. 5, where I tutored kids from pre-K to second grade. The three hours I attended, twice a week, were a serious commitment to me. I felt that if I did not attend on certain days, a child was going to be left behind and not receive the education he/she needs. This was a great experience, which made me think about pursuing a career as a teacher. Teaching a child and watching that child put those skills to use for the rest of his or her life is amazing to me.
