From Rejection to Success with My Scholarship Journey

Finding a fully funded scholarship is never an easy journey. It is a path filled with hope, rejection, patience, and resilience. This is my personal story a journey that proves that persistence and faith can turn setbacks into success.

The Beginning of My Scholarship Journey

After completing my high school education, I began preparing myself for international study. I first applied for my passport and then worked on fulfilling the remaining requirements, such as obtaining my high school certificate, academic transcript and recommendation letters. My school played a major role in supporting me throughout this process.

Once my documents were ready, I started applying for scholarships. I initially focused on opportunities in the United States and applied to more than ten universities. I was accepted by the following institutions:

• Duquesne University

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

• Columbia College Chicago

Each of these universities offered me a scholarship valued at up to $48,000 per year. After receiving these offers, I began the process of applying for an F-1 Student Visa through the I-20 form.

Unfortunately, during this stage, I received unexpected and disappointing news. The President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced a visa ban affecting Somali passport holders. This news was deeply discouraging and forced my plans to come to a halt.

Despite this setback, I did not give up. I continued searching for scholarship opportunities in other countries, including Türkiye, Romania, Saudi Arabia, and Italy. Sadly, I faced rejection again and was unable to benefit from these opportunities.

At this point, I would like to sincerely thank Mogadishu International School, especially the administration and its offices, for their continuous support and assistance in providing all the academic documents I needed.

While feeling discouraged, one day I came across a post on Facebook shared by the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education of Somalia, announcing a scholarship opportunity in Algeria. I immediately followed the application link and submitted my application on the same day.

After three months, I received a WhatsApp message informing me that I had been awarded the scholarship. I was selected from 1,200 applicants and became one of the 110 students chosen to benefit from this opportunity. I am currently studying in Algeria at USTO-MB (University of Sciences and Technology of Oran - Mohamed Boudiaf) in the Faculty of Science and Technology.

Above all, my deepest gratitude goes to Allah, who made my dream of pursuing higher education a reality. I also extend my sincere thanks to the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Higher Education of Somalia for granting me this opportunity.

Final Message

The purpose of sharing my story is to encourage students who are searching for scholarships. Do not be discouraged by rejection. Keep trying, stay patient, and believe in yourself-success will come.