This winter, three of our post-secondary scholars graduated from Arizona State University. Because there’s less than a 3% chance for young people aged out of foster care to earn a college degree, it’s a really big deal. Meet Alan, Nyssa, and Sylvia!
Alan
Alan earned his Bachelor of Arts in business and communication, receiving the AFFCF scholarship for the five semesters he spent at ASU after receiving his associate degree from Phoenix College. He plans to begin pursuing a Master’s degree in education at ASU January. Here’s what Alan had to say about his experience:
Looking back at where I was in my life before I started my college career, I would have never imagined that I would be where I am today. I didn’t have it easy growing up and where I come from, college wasn’t even an option. When I was removed from my family, I had very little hope for my future. However, along the way I met many great supports and took advantage of the opportunities that were presented to me.
Nyssa
Nyssa earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She received the AFFCF scholarship for her final two semesters in her hybrid ASU-Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) nursing program. She begins her nursing career at one of the most pivotal times in the medical profession. Here’s what she told us about becoming a nurse:
I am extremely motivated to be a nurse one day. Ever since having my son at 19 years old, I wanted nothing more than to give him the best life possible. As a nurse, I can see myself being able to support him with little help from others. I also want to be a nurse to help people heal – I believe each life is special and deserves to receive the utmost care… As a nurse, I will help my patients with all aspects of their lives, not just the daily activities of living.
Silvia
Silvia just earned Bachelor of Arts in art, specifically painting. She received the AFFCF scholarship for her final four semesters at ASU and is looking forward to pursuing creative opportunities in the future. Here’s what she says about her art degree:
My goal for pursuing an art degree is to do what I love and am passionate about. I am not after fame nor fortune, but instead peace of mind and heart. Painting isn’t necessarily a sought-after skill, but I’m willing to work hard and prove to society that my work is worth something and that I am worth something because each piece I create has a little part of my soul in it. I hope to show the world how healing art is and how it helps to convey feelings that are hard to get out in words.
Help More Students Win
When you give to AFFCF this holiday season, it’s a WIN-WIN for us all! You win with a credit on our AZ state taxes ($500 for individuals, $1,000 for couples). Students in our post-secondary scholarship program like Alan, Nyssa, and Silvia WIN by finding stability and support for their education dreams. Make your foster care tax donation today!