To the Staff of UB,

I feel the need to write this letter to you about how Upward Bound has changed my life. I woke up the first morning after my last day there and I felt it wouldn't be right if I didn't thank everyone there. If there were anyway possible that you can send a copy of this to all of the staff for 2000 it would be greatly appreciated. If you would like me to pay for the stamps then please send me the addresses of all them for me, and I will be more than happy to send it out.

At first, I think I took total advantage of everything. I mean, I was getting out of my house, and away from the stress that my parents and siblings cause me, what else could be better? Well I was soon to find out that I was wrong. I did understand and even like the idea of going to classes everyday to help me with my education for the next year at school, but it was not at all how I expected it.

I got about 5 to 51/2 hours of sleep every night on average, I had to push myself to wake up at 5:30 every morning, and walking all over campus all day, everyday sure kept me complaining. But I now realize that everything was planned that way for a reason. It's all done for us. Every little thing. All of you had to wake up early to join and helping us through everything. I don't even mean help us by telling us to stop complaining because we aren't the only ones who are faced with that same task. I never had anyone tell me to stop complaining. No matter how much you all probably wanted me to realize that everyone around me had the same problems, you never lost your temper. You stood by me through everything. You were always willing to help me with my work, my goals, my dreams, my friendships, my health, and my needs. Or to help me when I needed a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold, a hug so I know I'm cared about, someone to talk to about anything with, or even just someone to make me laugh. I owe all of you so much more than I feel I can ever repay you with.

No matter what role you played for me. If I got really close to you, if I only shared a couple of words with you, or even if we never spoke, everything you did or said helped me in some way. The food I was provided, the education I received, the friendships I will never forget, and the trips that were so perfectly planned to the last second.

I felt that the end came too soon, way too soon. I think I cried more than anyone did, and I'm not embarrassed to say it. I grew so close to everyone, I just didn't know how to let go. It's hard for me to sit here and write this letter without tears filling my eyes. I just think about how I'd still just be me, if I weren't accepted into this program. I was on a waiting list for a while, and just when I had given up all hope I received the phone call. I wouldn't let the opportunity pass, and I am so thankful that I didn't. As much as all the good-byes hurt I wouldn't give up this summer for anything. It was priceless. I can without any doubts call it the best summer I've ever had. Everyone touched my life in some way. Even the small, short conversations I had with people all held special meanings. A small box can hold a diamond ring, just like a small conversation can hold a meaning that can't even be explained in a million words.

An example of how I've changed... well, leaving UB for me was the first time I've cried in front of my parents in a long time. I mean I've cried when I was mad that them or when I was physically hurt, but I normally keep all my feelings in around them. I'd rather not have them around me, asking what's wrong. I prefer to keep to myself. And that felt great. I cried for my whole family to see for the first time in forever. I don't know how to explain why this was such a great experience for me, but it was.

Unfortunately some of you have to leave us, and won't be joining us next year. But I wish you the best of luck in life, and everything you do. You're all going to go so far in life. You have so much in store for you. Your personalities alone could get you far enough, but your determination and will power will leave you with endless possibilities. Just remember to follow you dreams, never let anyone discourage you, and your heart will lead you in the right direction. Just like my heart is bringing me back there next year. And although I am going to miss all of you next year, I know there is going to be many new people there for me to grow to love. I only have faith because all of you are so dedicated, and I know only the most wonderful people will be allowed in.

Don't think I take anything you've done for me for granted, because no one will ever take your place in my heart. I'll always miss you and care for you just the same. But I know that I do not have a choice, so I am willing now, to make room for more people to make such impacts on my life.

I hate change with a passion, but it makes me stronger as a person. I came home and everything feels so different than it did before coming there. I can't stand listening to my family argue, it gets me so frustrated that they all can't get along, and be happy. Before it didn't bother me as much, I just wanted to jump in and win the battle. But now I just want to jump in and make it stop. The first weekend home from there, my father and brother started arguing after I was picked up from the bus stop, and I wanted more than anything to have them stop. Because, you all touched me even in my first week here.

Even though I am proud of myself for what I have accomplished already in weeks of my life, there is so much I want to change when I go back next summer. I am going to push myself, through all of my classes. I want to be a leader and help people though their times of trouble there. I don't feel as though I had the chance to change someone's life, and I know that isn't something I can just choose to do. I just want to know that I helped someone. I am going to stick to my goals; I plan to follow the no discount policy all the way through the summer. And most importantly show everyone just how much he or she has made an impact on me. I express best how I feel in writing, and I hope this is understandable for all of you.

So to sum all of this up... I would like to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart, for everything you've done for me, whether you feel you have helped me or now, because you all have. If you didn't, I wouldn't be taking the time to write this for all of you. It is your dedication and the time that you put into my life and the lives of those around me, that makes me realize who you are, and you have helped me shape me to be who I want to be. I am indeed Upward Bound, and I have you to thank

With Respect and Love Always,

A UB Student