Fund 1000 Scholarships in Rural China for a Year

At SOAR, we are thrilled to share the inspiring journey of every young talent we support, recognizing that each success story not only transforms their lives but also has the potential to uplift countless other rural students. Your generosity holds incredible power to magnify these opportunities and ignite the dreams of promising talents. In this report, we bring to you the story of Gloria, who was born in rural Sichuan and now a student majoring traditional Chinese medicine. From her story, we feel super rewarded that the scholarship has played a significant role in helping her achieve her goals and realizing her dreams.

Below is the transcript of her speech at 2023 Annual Gala of SOAR. Now she is in her fourth year at college.

Dear SOAR donors, volunteers, and friends,

My name is Gloria, and I come from a small town in Dazhou, Sichuan Province. My family has faced many hardships: my elder sister has a mental disability, my father passed away in a car accident, and my mother works tirelessly at the vegetable market to support me and my younger brother. For a long time, I thought my life would always be confined to the mountains.

When I was in junior high school, my family could barely afford tuition or books. I ranked among the top students in my grade, but I felt guilty for being a financial burden and almost dropped out to work. It was then that my teacher introduced me to SOAR. Through SOAR, I learned that kind-hearted people—even from far beyond my mountain home—were willing to support me in pursuing my dreams.

With SOAR's support, I was able to attend high school without worrying about tuition or book fees. Every year, I received timely scholarships and letters of encouragement that motivated me to work harder. Thanks to this support, I am now a junior at Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. SOAR has been more than a sponsor—it has been a guide, showing me that even from challenging circumstances, one can grow strong and reach for the light.

Studying traditional Chinese medicine has not been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. Over the past two years, I’ve gone beyond textbooks, learning from experienced doctors, practicing acupuncture, and gaining clinical experience. I am determined to become a skilled Chinese medicine practitioner, bringing relief and hope to patients in need. This is the path I’ve chosen, and it is one I value deeply.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to SOAR’s sponsors and volunteers. Every penny of the scholarship represents the generosity and sacrifice of those who believe in us. Your support has changed the course of my life and the lives of so many others. You’ve taught us resilience, gratitude, and hope for the future. I will continue to work hard to become someone who gives back to society and lives with purpose.

Thank you for everything.

Sincerely,

Gloria

There are countless students like Gloria who face unimaginable struggles but dream of a brighter future. Your continued support can help transform their lives, just as you have transformed the Gloria’s. Together, we can give them the hope, encouragement, and resources they need to break through barriers and achieve their potential.

Thank you for trusting SOAR and for making the dreams of these young talents possible.

Links:

• Inspired by SOAR: Andrea's path to a future doctor