GOD of the Impossible: The Journey of an Unseen Dream from The Philippines to the USA

“Now unto Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…” – Ephesians 3:20

In a story that could only be orchestrated and written by GOD, a group of three dedicated students and two adult leaders from the Philippines found themselves living out a dream they never even dared to dream. Their journey to Fort Wayne, Indiana, to attend the Cornerstone Christian College Preparatory Day and High School (C-Prep) 2025 Commencement and Honors Ball Celebration was nothing short of miraculous.

What made this trip even more extraordinary? Every part of it, from applying for visas, to airfare, housing, meals, van rental, and recreational experiences, was completely and generously sponsored out of the personal pockets of C-Prep’s Headmaster and Founder, and my grandpa, Dr. Oscar J. Nelson Dowdell-Underwood, whose heart just wanted to be a conduit of GOD’S love.

For almost an entire academic year, these students followed a routine. Due to the 12-hour time difference, they flipped their daily lives to attend classes on C-Prep’s Cyber Global campus from 8:00 PM to 3:30 AM Philippines time which was 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM Eastern Standard Time. It was a test of discipline, endurance, and above all, faith and commitment to GOD. But they did it.

As a result of their faith and commitment to GOD by being committed to their academics, they took a trip across the world to walk the stage at C-Prep's commencement and Honor’s Ball Celebration. While in Fort Wayne, they also enjoyed a time of joyful recreation with visits to the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, Putt-Putt Go Karting, a lively arcade experience, a tour around the city, as well as enjoying food from Raising Cane, and Snacks on Wheels BBQ, who prepared a wonderful meal at no cost.

Each moment of their journey was a testament to the faithfulness of GOD and the power of believing GOD when He said, “All things are possible to them who believe.” Therefore, they were able to live out unseen dreams, experiences they never dreamt of having or doing. These students were not just visitors; they were at home with their family. Furthermore, they are living proof that when GOD orchestrates a path, even what seems impossible becomes a testimony.

They worked hard. They believed. And GOD made it Possible!

Their journey from the Philippines to the USA is not just about academic travel. It’s about faith, sacrifice, obedience, and the overwhelming love of GOD expressed through generous hearts and GOD’S favor. In addition, to not placing limitations on what GOD can do.

At C-Prep, they were not just celebrated—they were honored. As Dr. Oscar J. Nelson Dowdell-Underwood, C-Prep’s Founder and Headmaster, passionately declares:

“Kids are to be celebrated, not tolerated.”

And indeed, not only were these young global scholars celebrated but the entire C-Prep Student Body were celebrated because of their accomplishments for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Reflection: A Heartfelt Thank You from Co-Valedictorian Shamar

Co-Valedictorian Shamar summarized her experience as:

"I want to take this moment to say a big “THANK YOU!” to C-Prep. From the bottom of my heart, I am truly thankful for everything you have done for me and for my family. You have been one of the greatest blessings in my life, and I will never forget your kindness.

First of all, I thank GOD for leading me to C-Prep. The school itself is a gift. Thank you to all the staff, teachers, and leaders who helped guide me with so much love and care. Your prayers, wisdom, and support gave me strength, especially in hard times. You didn’t just teach me lessons in books, you helped me grow in faith, in character, and in hope. I always felt your prayers and encouragement, and I knew that I was never alone.

Second, I am beyond thankful for the chance to visit you in person. Thank you, Dr. NDU for sponsoring our U.S. visa, for taking care of the trip, and for covering all the expenses so we could spend one amazing week with you. That week was filled with joy, learning, and unforgettable experiences. I got to visit Fort Wayne and see beautiful places like the park, the mall, and the art museum. I even got to stay in a wonderful hotel, something I never imagined I would experience. And of course, I’ll never forget tasting Raising Cane’s for the first time, a fast-food place that we don’t have in the Philippines. These are memories I will carry with me forever.

Thank you also for all the blessings you gave us, the books, the pens, the chocolates, the tablet, the scholarship money, the letter, and many more. These are not just simple gifts. Each one reminded me of GOD’s love through your generosity. Because of you, not only was I blessed, but my whole family felt the blessing too.

I promise that I will never forget C-Prep, all the things you taught me, and all the kindness you showed to us. You will always be in my heart, and I will truly miss all of you.

A special thank you to Dr. NDU for making everything possible. Thank you for your heart, your vision, and your love for students like me.

Thank you also to Dr. Leticia, Dr. Ja’Marqis, and their kids, for guiding us throughout the trip. You made us feel safe, welcomed, and loved every step of the way.

Thank you to all the C-Prep staff for your goodness, support, and care. Each of you made this journey special.

Lastly, all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise belong to GOD. Thank YOU, LORD, for using C-Prep as an instrument of blessing in my life.

Thank you, C-Prep. I will always be grateful."