As a sophmore at the Lakeside School in 2008, Rapheal Diallo recognized the challenges he had already overcome.

  "I remember when I was much younger and my family was out driving, we passed by a school that caught my attention. I asked my mom about it and she told me it was Lakeside.  I told her that someday I would like to attend that school, but it was only a dream.  Well I am proud to say today I am living that dream.

  As a student of color, the path to achieving my dreams has not always been easy. I’ve always been aware that I was in a minority.  All throughout elementary school, I was one of only a few kids of color in my class. Even with comments made out of ignorance by my classmates, I stayed focused and worked hard everyday to achieve my goals.

  Rainier Scholars provided the opportunity for my hard work to be channeled into academics and building confidence in my abilities. Rainier Scholars helped strengthen my confidence to handle obstacles everyday.  Not only do I get support from the staff, but I also know there are dozens of Rainier Scholars students my age going through the same experiences.  I know I am not alone. And with this support I can get the help I need to make my dreams come true. Because of Rainier Scholars I appreciate myself for who I am and what my future holds.
 
  My biggest dream is to lead a life of meaning and worth, so that when I’m old and retired, I can look back and be proud of what I’ve done for others.  Rainier Scholars has provided the opportunity for me to be successful at one of the top schools in Seattle and it has opened my eyes to the possibilities that lie before me.  Now it is my job to achieve my dreams, create that sense of pride and make a difference in this world."