Everyone has experiences that shape who they become.
My name is Abraham Andrade. I am 18 years old, and I am the oldest of two siblings. I was born and raised in Mexico in a family that taught me from a young age the values of sacrifice, discipline, and faith. My parents, Rosario Vélez Saucedo and Leonardo Andrade Valdivia, always reminded me that education comes first and that dreams are achieved through hard work and perseverance.
At the age of 14, I made one of the most difficult decisions of my life: to move to the United States in order to pursue my academic and athletic goals. Leaving behind my parents, family, and friends was not easy, but I understood that growth often requires sacrifice. In Mexico, we call this opportunity “the American Dream.” Not everyone is given the chance to chase their dreams in another country, which is why I am deeply grateful to God for every opportunity I have received.
From a young age, I discovered my passion and talent for basketball. What started as a simple game quickly became a serious commitment. Through dedication, discipline, and countless hours of training, I was selected to play at a professional level and had the honor of representing Mexico. I was also recognized as Athlete of the Week in the state of Arizona, an achievement that reflects not only my performance on the court but also my consistency and competitive mindset. Recently, I was called once again to represent Mexico in the Dominican Republic, which is both an incredible honor and a responsibility I carry with pride.
However, my identity is not defined by sports alone. I strongly believe in balance. Following my parents’ advice, I have always prioritized my education, maintaining strong academic performance throughout high school. To me, basketball and academics do not compete with each other, they complement one another. Both require discipline, focus, resilience, and commitment.
My story is about stepping out of my comfort zone to pursue something greater than myself. Every sacrifice, every practice, and every late night studying has strengthened my character. I do not play only for myself, I play for my family, for my country, and for everyone who believes in me.
I am determined to continue growing both academically and athletically, proving that with faith, hard work, and determination, dreams can truly become reality.
For me, it is a true honor to be recognized as Student of the Month for March. I do not see this recognition as just a personal achievement, but as the result of every sacrifice, every effort, and every moment when I chose not to give up. Honestly, I did not expect this, because I know there are many students who work just as hard, or even harder. That is why I receive this award with humility and, above all, gratitude.
First, I want to thank my teachers. You have played a fundamental role in my growth, not only as a student but as a person. Thank you for pushing me to do better, for believing in me, and for helping me become stronger academically and personally.
I would like to dedicate a few special words to Mr. Hansen (may he rest in peace). He taught me that pain is part of life and that every obstacle we face is an opportunity to grow and prove who we truly are. He showed me that challenges are not meant to stop us, but to strengthen us. His lessons continue to guide me every day. I also want to sincerely thank Mrs. Hansen for always standing by my side, for supporting me during difficult times, and for reminding me that everything happens for a reason. She taught me that God always has a plan, even when we do not fully understand it.
To my mom, thank you for being my greatest inspiration. Thank you for your unconditional love, for your sacrifices, and for never stopping believing in me, even when I doubted myself. Everything I am and everything I hope to become is because of you.
To Katie, thank you for helping me with the language and for your patience as I adapted and learned. And to my friends, thank you for always being there and supporting me along this journey.
This recognition motivates me to continue working even harder. After high school, my goal is to move to San Diego to play basketball and earn a degree in International Business. I want to continue growing academically and athletically, and to make my family and everyone who believes in me proud.
Thank you all for believing in me. This achievement is not only mine, it belongs to all of you.