Pinecrest Business Association Scholarship

Peter Cai is a senior at Palmetto High and he will be attending University of Pennsylvania.

Peter Cai with Toby Rose

Principal Howard Weiner (Miami Palmetto High School)
 

Peter Cai with his parents

Hi Toby,

            It is hard for me to put into words what I really want to say. Almost two years ago, Peter first met you as a junior at Palmetto. Now as I am preparing to attend the University of Pennsylvania, I cannot believe that that Peter was me.

            When I first started the college application process, I was overwhelmed thinking of the best way to present myself and my accomplishments. We got to know each other after talking for hours at our meetings and I soon began stopping by your office after school every time something was bothering me. I didn’t know which colleges to apply to, what essays to write, and which careers to pursue. You helped talk me through the process and used your experience to teach me about things that will help me survive in college. Most importantly, your support helped me to have the best senior year ever! Before meeting you, I would have never thought that I would be walking down the stage of Palmetto’s auditorium on the night of the Mr. Panther show or performing as part of the A’SYNC group. I will always remember how you helped me convince my parents that attending Prom takes priority over a multicultural weekend at Washington University at St. Louis.

            I think the most important thing that students should know is that you become more than just a College Application Program counselor. You are someone that I have learned to trust as a “second mother.” After years of schooling, the routine schedule of high school places many of us in a daze, a fantasy world. I did not realize that life goes beyond doing worksheets, taking notes, and preparing for tests. Talking with you about everything from politics and important world issues to social life brought me out of that fantasy world.

Toby, you have helped me find my individuality. I am no longer afraid to be who I am and pursue my dreams knowing that you are only a phone call away.

            Thank you for everything!
                        Peter Cai