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From Adversity to Possibility: A Student's Journey

Cruce Saunders | April 23, 2025

Talking Points​

  • Personal introduction (age, background)
  • Previous educational challenges (instability, abuse)
  • Alpha School as a transformative opportunity
  • The impact of receiving a scholarship
  • Personal project (running app)
  • Call to action for influential audience

Speech​

Good evening, everyone. My name is Cruce Saunders, and I'm 16 years old. I'm currently a sophomore at Alpha High School, and I'm here tonight because my story is a testament to what's possible when someone gets access to the right environment.

Before coming to Alpha, my life was defined by instability. My parents divorced when I was 12, and afterward, I moved between nearly ten different schools. I faced threats from students and, at times, even physical abuse from teachers. I had no real friends from fourth grade until finding Alpha. The traditional education system wasn't just failing me—it was actively harming me.

Running became my escape. In my darkest moments, physical movement gave me a sense of control and clarity nothing else could provide. That's why I'm now developing a running app that uses haptic feedback to gamify exercise—to help others discover what saved me.

Alpha School didn't just offer me an alternative education—it offered me a lifeline. Someone in a room very much like this one decided to sponsor my scholarship, and that decision fundamentally changed my trajectory. For the first time, I found myself in an environment that valued my self-direction and rewarded creativity. I went from surviving to thriving.

What makes Alpha different is that it's not just about escaping a bad situation—it's about accelerating toward your potential. The two-hour learning model, the focus on real-world projects, the community that celebrates different kinds of intelligence—all of these elements create a space where someone like me can truly excel.

Looking around this room, I see people who have climbed mountains to get where you are. Many of you know what it means to claw your way to success against incredible odds. You've made it, and now you have the power to ensure others don't have to face those same barriers.

Whether it's starting a micro-school, funding scholarships like the one that changed my life, or bringing your unique talents to our community—your involvement matters. One decision can transform a life. I know this because I'm living proof.

If you want to help as many young people like me leapfrog to the next level so we can contribute to humanity in meaningful ways—you're in exactly the right place tonight.

Thank you for listening to my story.

Delivery Notes​

  • Speak naturally and maintain eye contact
  • Take your time with emotional points
  • Stand tall and project confidence
  • Remember that your maturity and poise will surprise the audience
  • If you get nervous, pause and take a breath—your authenticity is your strength