Maggie's Way- International Woman’s Scholarship

Never could I imagine someone else had the same struggles as I did. Malgorzata and I are very much alike on several grounds. I moved to the US a few months ago to further my studies in medicine. As a Cameroonian from the Fulani tribe, my identity as a female destined me to marry by the age of 18. Culturally I couldn’t do anything to stop this from happening unless I found a way to move out of my country and further my education without bordering my father. My father is the one who makes financial decisions in my family. I struggled on my own and applied to numerous colleges across the US, and upon graduation from high school, I got accepted into 7 different colleges. Georgia State University offered me the most generous scholarship I needed to persuade my father to let me work on my dreams before getting married. Unfortunately, my father’s mind changed, and he will not be able to assist me financially in paying my tuition anymore. I took a part-time job hoping to save enough money to ensure my tuition payment for the spring 2023 semester, but I am afraid this will not be sufficient. I am not yet willing to give up on my dreams! I have to work! And I will work hard and smart. My choices now are moving back to my country and getting married to a man I do not know or finding a way to pay for my tuition and achieve my dreams, becoming financially independent and acquiring freedom. Now, It is essential to understand how the cultural society I live in categorizes people like me. Many of my cousins and friends aged 16-18 are already married or a getting married soon. As a female, getting married is the default and best option provided. By moving to the US, I phase a lot of marginalization and discrimination from the people from my own family and ethnic group. “A girl with no respect.” “She follows western culture” and “No man will ever want to marry her” are the gossips and rumours that are now propagated about me within my family and community. Medicine is my passion, and that’s all I ask for. My whole spirit, soul and body are driven towards that one thought of acquiring medical knowledge that I can exercise every day of my life in my community and within the entire earth globe. Currently, I am a biology major with a pre-med concentration. It is challenging and demanding, but that same thought of me being a MEDICAL DOCTOR wakes me up every morning and motivates me to work as hard as possible. If my application is granted, it will be the most unforgettable experience of my whole life. I need this scholarship. I really do.

As I reflect on the life and journey of Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien, I am inspired by her remarkable determination, intellectual boldness, and unwavering bravery. Her story resonates deeply with me as I traveled alone from Thailand to pursue a degree in Computer Science in the United States. Maggie's legacy of resilience and her passion for education have left an indelible mark on my own aspirations and sense of purpose. Moving to a foreign land, just as Maggie did when she arrived in the U.S., is a challenge that demands courage and adaptability. I understand the complexities of starting anew in an unfamiliar environment, with no support system in place. Like Maggie, I faced this daunting task head-on, propelled by my determination to pursue higher education and broaden my horizons. I am intimately familiar with the feelings of uncertainty and the need to find my place within a new academic and cultural landscape. Moreover, Maggie's fearlessness in the face of physical challenges resonates deeply with me. I, too, have sought to embrace physical endeavors that push my boundaries. From climbing mountains and diving into new experiences to teaching skiing and exploring the world on two wheels, I have discovered the transformative power of stepping outside of my comfort zone. Just as Maggie approached life fearlessly, I have cultivated a similar spirit of adventure, driven by a desire to learn and grow from every encounter and endeavor. Beyond physical pursuits, Maggie's intellectual boldness and her commitment to becoming an expert in her chosen field inspire me greatly. Like her, I am fueled by a deep thirst for knowledge and an unwavering passion for Computer Science. I am resolute in my dedication to continuously enhance my understanding and expertise, just as Maggie demonstrated throughout her career. I strive to approach every academic challenge as an opportunity for growth, and I relish engaging in thought-provoking debates that broaden my perspective and refine my critical thinking skills. The scholarship established in Maggie's memory not only acknowledges her exceptional life but also honors her legacy by supporting female students who, like me, have moved to the U.S. for their education. It is an incredible privilege to be considered for this opportunity, which aligns perfectly with my aspirations and journey. As a female student pursuing STEM, I wholeheartedly embrace the values and principles that guided Maggie's life. Through this scholarship, I seek to carry forward Maggie's spirit of determination, fearlessness, and intellectual curiosity. I aim to become a trailblazer in my own right, making significant contributions to the field of Computer Science and inspiring others to embrace challenges and pursue excellence. In conclusion, Malgorzata "Maggie" Kwiecien's remarkable story resonates deeply with my own journey as an international student. Her unwavering determination, intellectual boldness, and fearlessness in the face of challenges have left an indelible mark on my own aspirations and character. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship, which not only honors Maggie's extraordinary life but also provides support and empowerment to female students pursuing their dreams. If chosen, I will carry Maggie's legacy forward, striving to emulate her spirit as I navigate my path in Computer Science and make a positive impact on the world.