My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I believe God is directing me to attend college at a christian college. I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. I also have jobs after school and on the weekends that have included caring for elderly and working with a photography business. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. An American dream includes my family and a chance to build my business. Sincerely, Nelson Bundren nelsonebundren.student@viennahighschool.com

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla but is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have many siblings and have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through foster care and orphanage care. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in playing soccer while I study photography and business. I have a 4.79 GPA. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art & spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School. I have a 4.79 GPA and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing in order to start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois Beta Club in art & spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That along with part time work keeps me very busy after school. I believe that staying connected to soccer has benefited me greatly. My adoptive parents have always encouraged me to stay connected with the sport. It is now what I have signed to play in college. Sincerely, Nelson Bundren nelsonebundren.student@viennahighschool.com

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. When I am playing soccer, things just seem to make sense to me. I am able to be more relaxed. My adoptive parents have always encouraged me to remain in soccer. They want what is best for me. Sincerely, Nelson Bundren nelsonebundren.student@viennahighschool.com

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. I also have jobs after school and on the weekends that have included caring for elderly and working with a photography business. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. Because I have several siblings and want to attend a private college, I would greatly benefit from any scholarship given. Sincerely, Nelson Bundren

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! I try to talk to friends who are struggling and talk to them about the support they have around them. I can understand feeling rejected, unsupported, but know there is always someone that wants to give support. I try to be that support for others.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art and photography. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. Focusing on blessings in my life and restructuring the thoughts I have about life events is most important. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class yet I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. My interest in art and photography are definitely outlets for me. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. My plan is to continue to be involved in extra curricular activities, keep friends and family close, and learn as much as possible regarding art and photography.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! I believe we all can make a difference in this world. I want to also adopt older children one day. Every child should have and deserves to have a family. That will make a huge difference!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! I have found that soccer, painting, and photography are great outlets for me. I plan to play soccer in college and study business in order to start my own photography business.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Learning to identify triggers, manage stress, and understand healthy aspects of relationships is a process that takes time. Keeping focused on the positive aspects of life enables a person to remain focused and uplifted. Having good friends who are supportive in good times and bad, being honest when a person is off base or looses their focus, and are willing to have tough conversations are all aspects of having a good support system. Focusing on strengths and setting goals keeps a person inspired to continue through tough days. Staying physically active is very important. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. Art is very therapeutic. Painting and photography are two ways I lose myself in. I love to draw and paint. Time seems to stand still for me. I’ve been told by professional photographers that I have a good eye and creative ideas. Choosing to use my strengths to do what I love is part of my mental health. Everyone has ups and downs. I believe we just need to recognize that is not failing. It is living!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I have jobs after school and on the weekends. Until the past month when both my grandparents had to go the hospital, I was their caretaker every Friday night from 8pm until 8 am which was when a new shift worker would arrive. They were both 89 years old, had 24 hour care, and my grandfather has dementia. They loved for me to take care of them. Those are some of the ways I have tried to earn money. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. Because I have several siblings and want to attend a private college, I would greatly benefit from any scholarship given. I am trying to save as much money as possible before entering college.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art in acrylic painting and in spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. I feel art is a way for me to calm my mind and refocus. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I often sat during class and would draw. I eventually was asked to be in gifted art. Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas.

You may not change the whole world but you can change the world for one child. My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. My family may not have been able to impact the world but they have impacted my world.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. Focusing on my goal to play soccer and learn as much as I can about how to start a photography business keeps me motivated.

Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” I am learning a lot about resilience. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. Even though I battle with Anxiety and PTSD, I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. I can lose myself in a soccer game and not even need to think about things. I am also that way with art. I can draw and paint to deal with stress. Photography is the career that I plan to have. I have volunteered and now am hired by a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. Creativity is definitely an outlet for me. Thank you for your consideration, Nelson Bundren nelsonebundren.student@viennahighschool.com

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 / 5.0 GPA. I am interested in studying art & photography so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activities that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. I also have jobs after school and on the weekends. Until the past month when both my grandparents had to go the hospital, I was their caretaker every Friday night from 8pm until 8 am which was when a new shift worker would arrive. They were both 89 years old, had 24 hour care, and my grandfather has dementia. They loved for me to take care of them. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. Because I have several siblings and want to attend a private college, I would greatly benefit from any scholarship given. Nelson Bundren nelsonebundren.student@viennahighschool.com

A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” Whether during times of growing up in foster, orphanage care, or moving to a completely different country, I have always thought about what is working well in my life. During times of living in an orphanage with older boys, I used that time to learn all I could about the game of soccer. I poured my time and energy into improving technically. While soccer became my road to self-care, I believe it was a way to focus on something within my control. It was a positive outlook in a place that was not always pleasant. I still use soccer to unwind, not over-think things, and exercise regularly. I have two older brothers that I had to be separated from. They remained in orphanage care until they aged out. I could have been very angry about that. However, I have chosen to be a dreamer. I have chosen to keep in contact with them, plan visits with them, and dream of a time when we can be reunited again. Finding was to be active, be content with circumstances, staying positive, and dreaming big are all part of self care.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla and is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have 5 biological brothers and 2 adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places through foster/ orphanage care for 13 years of my life. I moved to the US through adoption when I was 13 years old. I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79/ 5.0 GPA and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing. I have a passion for soccer. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which were different from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school.

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla and is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have 5 biological brothers and 2 adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care /orphanage care for 13 years of my life. I moved to the US through adoption when I was 13 years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79/ 5.0 GPA and I am interested in studying art/photography/editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and Spanish. I have a passion for soccer. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions. When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK!

My name at birth was Nelson Estiven Culma Falla. My name is now Nelson Estiven Bundren. I grew up in Neiva, Colombia. I have five biological brothers and two adopted sisters. I have lived in a lot of different places in Colombia through Colombian foster care and Colombian orphanage care for thirteen years of my life. My youngest brother and I moved to the United States through adoption when I was thirteen years old. A scripture that is special to me is Philippians 4:12-13 that says “ I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, Whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” I am a senior at Vienna High School and I am interested in attending a university to play soccer while I study photography. I have a 4.79 GPA out of 5.0 and I am interested in studying art, photography, and editing so that I can start my own business. I have won first place in the Illinois State Beta Club in art and Spanish. I have had a passion for soccer since I was two years old. When I am out on the soccer field, it's the only time I don't have to think. I am learning a lot about resilience. I believe that my story of struggle to adoption is a tough one with a lot of mixed emotions.When I was enrolled in the USA as a sixth grade student, I knew no English. I missed my brothers, my family I had, and my culture I grew up with but I am grateful that I have been given a family who loves me and wants what is best for me. I have learned many things in my short life already. One major thing I have learned is I AM STRONGER THAN I THINK! Not only am I the first of all of my Colombian family to attend college, just two short years ago, a college education seemed out of reach. I was struggling with English. I did not enjoy my classes because my good friends were in accelerated classes which werdifferent from mine. I was not sure how college was going to be a part of my future. My friends and my parents kept encouraging me not to give up. I had friends and my parents who would help me understand directions for assignments. I had teachers that did not have me in class that I could ask to help me after school. I am involved in as many sport activity that I can be in with soccer taking priority. That keeps me very busy after school. I also have jobs after school and on the weekends. Until the past month when both my grandparents had to go the hospital, I was their caretaker every Friday night from 8pm until 8 am which was when a new shift worker would arrive. They were both 89 years old, had 24 hour care, and my grandfather has dementia. They loved for me to take care of them. I have volunteered and now am hired by Kingdom Beats, a photography business that does weddings. I am curious about how to start a photography business. I have a lot of ideas and the owner of the business says I have very creative ideas. Sincerely, Nelson Bundren nelsonebundren.student@viennahighschool.com

I am a 19 year old student in high school. I was adopted from Colombia South American when I was 13 years old. I was in and out if foster care in Colombia until placed in an orphanage when I was very young. My younger brother and I had to leave our older two brothers in the orphanage we were adopted from in order to be adopted and move to the United States. My adopted parents have given us a good home and try to help us adjust in many different ways. My adoptive parents decided to place me back a couple of grades since I knew no English at all. They have also helped us by keeping in contact with our older brothers. My brothers and I have experienced a lot together. We know what alcohol and drugs do to families. We have seen first hand how drinking consumes family resources and robs families of being able to survive together. My adoptive family plans to reunite with my older brothers for a visit after I graduate from high school. Four brothers will be reunited again soon. My plan after college is to start a photography business. I would also love to work with other adoptees. I try to help those who are struggling by telling them my story.