“I live with my family consisting of four brothers, one of them married, a married elder sister and my mother. After the death of my father, my mother who was young at the time became responsible for six members of the family, all of whom were in school. I am the youngest. My mother could not enrol me in the school I dreamed of, but my brothers and I completed our secondary education in public schools and were able to pursue our bachelor’s studies. I passed the Tawjihi national exam with a grade of 92.4, and achieved the first rank. After completing my bachelor’s degree in English literature, I worked at major companies and was distinguished in my work obtaining many certificates of appreciation for outstanding performance and exceptional commitment to teamwork. My family has been one of my greatest support in life. In 2016, I wanted to follow my greatest dream and ambition and pursue doctoral studies and decided to continue my Master’s degree in contemporary European History because the history major in our universities lacks specialised professors in this particular field. During my master’s studies, my mother suffered from heart disease. I used to spend time with her at the hospital, finish the treatment and go home and continue my assignments. Despite all these hardships and scepticism I faced, I was determined to make my mother proud, and thanks to her prayers and the support of my university professors and brothers, I was able to receive an excellent grade of 89.8 and finish my Master’s degree in Modern and Contemporary European History at Yarmouk University with honours. Receiving the HOPES scholarship was my greatest achievement. I am very proud to be a student representative of a European Union’s scholarship grant. In addition to providing the financial support I needed during my studies, HOPES gave me strength and psychological support, believing in me and my abilities. HOPES did not only represent hope for many students but the spirit and the life force that supported every young and ambitious student aspiring to excel and serve their countries. Trust yourself and your abilities. Every day is for you a chance to succeed. Do not hesitate to persevere and do not leave your dreams and ambitions in vain for every problem you face and remember that success is always an ally of perseverance.”
By Hala Redaideh
2019
