My name is Mohamed, and my story begins with my family’s search for a better life. In 2009, we left Egypt and came to the United States with the hope of opportunity and security. Though our arrival was undocumented, our intentions were full of purpose—like so many immigrant families, we weren’t seeking shortcuts, just a fair chance. That journey, and the sacrifices my family made, shaped everything I believe about the world, and it continues to guide my academic and career goals today. Growing up undocumented in America is a quiet kind of struggle. It meant watching my parents work long hours, sometimes underpaid, always under stress, to make sure we had food and stability. It meant seeing them sacrifice dreams of their own so that I could pursue mine. It meant learning early on that while we were in a land of opportunity, those opportunities came with locked doors and complicated keys. Still, they always told me: “Education is your power. No one can take that from you.” Their words stayed with me. I’ve grown up knowing that education is not just about books—it’s about gaining the tools to change your future, and the futures of others. That’s why I chose to study political science and why I plan to become an immigration lawyer. My dream is to fight for families like mine, to help others navigate the same system that often feels impossible when English isn’t your first language or when your documentation status adds an invisible wall to every dream. My family’s story taught me empathy. It taught me that systems, no matter how powerful, are built by people—and that they can be improved by people, too. I want to be one of those people. My ultimate goal is to open my own immigration law firm, providing affordable legal support to underserved communities while also shaping policy and advocating for humane reform. In the short term, I’m focused on completing my undergraduate degree at UMass Boston and gaining experience through internships and volunteer work at immigration clinics. This scholarship would mean more than financial support. It would be a recognition of how far my family and I have come. It would be a step closer to making my goals a reality, and to honoring the sacrifices that brought me here. My parents gave up everything familiar so I could have a future, and I’m determined not to waste it. I carry their dreams with me every day, and I know that by building my own path, I’m also building theirs. Immigrants bring more than labor to this country. We bring hope, work ethic, resilience, and vision. We are builders—not just of businesses or buildings, but of futures. I am proud to be one of them, and I’m committed to giving back to the country that, despite its challenges, gave me the chance to dream. Thank you for considering my application.

My name is Mohamed, and I am a political science student who aspires to serve my community and country by becoming a federal public servant, particularly in the field of immigration law. My journey, shaped by resilience and fueled by a deep desire to bring justice and fairness to underserved communities, has inspired me to pursue a career that will strengthen and protect vulnerable populations through public service. I came to the United States as a child in 2009. Like many undocumented youth, I grew up with uncertainty—uncertain status, limited opportunities, and a quiet but heavy awareness that my future was tied to policies and decisions far beyond my control. But instead of letting that uncertainty break me, I used it as motivation. I studied hard, volunteered, worked, and stayed committed to education. I knew that if I wanted to create change for myself and others like me, I had to start with knowledge and service. My long-term career goal is to become an immigration lawyer working within or alongside a federal agency, such as the Department of Justice or Homeland Security. While I used to dream of becoming a Marine Corps JAG officer—something I’m still open to—I’ve since begun shaping a more targeted path. I want to help people navigate the same system that once left me in limbo. In the future, I hope to work for USCIS, ICE, or another immigration-focused federal agency, either as a federal prosecutor or policy adviser. Eventually, I aim to open my own immigration law firm that works with both nonprofit and federal systems to make the immigration process more accessible and humane. My experience has already brought me close to this world. I volunteer at a local immigration clinic, helping families gather documents, file applications, and understand their rights. I’ve seen firsthand the confusion and fear that surrounds many immigrants’ interactions with federal agencies. That’s why I want to be someone on the inside who speaks their language—both literally and figuratively—and ensures that laws are applied justly. This scholarship would significantly ease the financial pressure of my education. As an undocumented student, I face many financial barriers. Although I now qualify for certain aid programs through Massachusetts, these often don’t cover room and board, and scholarships like this one make the difference between surviving and thriving in school. With this support, I can focus more on my studies, internship opportunities, and further volunteering without having to work multiple jobs to stay afloat. Public service requires sacrifice, and I’ve already lived a life of sacrifice and persistence. I understand what it means to fight for a better life, and I want to bring that same fight to a system that can either break or uplift people. I believe that my lived experience gives me a unique perspective, one that many federal institutions desperately need—someone who understands the letter of the law but also the human impact of it. In a world where immigration, justice, and national security continue to intersect, we need more public servants who are not just qualified—but also compassionate, driven, and connected to the people they serve. I intend to be that kind of public servant. This scholarship would invest in a future federal or legal professional who knows what’s at stake and who will never forget where he came from. My career goal is to attend law school, ideally at a top institution like Harvard, and specialize in immigration and civil rights law. I want to use my education and experiences to create meaningful change, offer legal support to families in need, and contribute to a more equitable system.

Creating a meaningful legacy is about more than just personal success — it’s about making a lasting, positive impact that extends beyond oneself and touches the lives of others. For me, the legacy I want to build is rooted in service, justice, and empowerment, especially for those whose voices are often unheard. My dream is to create a business that not only thrives but also serves as a beacon of hope and support for immigrant communities, helping them navigate complex legal challenges and access opportunities for a better life. I envision starting my own immigration law firm, one that stands out not just for legal expertise but for compassion and dedication to the people it serves. Many immigrants face overwhelming barriers — from language and cultural gaps to daunting legal processes and discrimination. My firm would focus on breaking down those barriers, offering accessible legal services that prioritize dignity and respect. I want to build a business that fosters trust, where clients feel safe and supported every step of the way. It’s not just about winning cases; it’s about changing lives. Creating this legacy means more than building a successful company; it means cultivating a culture of giving back. I want my firm to actively engage with community organizations, offer pro bono services, and educate people about their rights. This business will be a platform to shine a light on issues that are often overlooked and to advocate for systemic changes that promote justice and equity. By doing this, I hope to inspire other lawyers and professionals to use their skills for social good. How I shine my light today — and plan to in the future — is through my commitment to volunteer work, education, and advocacy. Volunteering at immigration clinics has taught me the power of listening and the importance of standing with those who need support. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about authority; it’s about empathy, humility, and the courage to speak up for what is right. I aim to carry these values forward in everything I do, whether in my future business or daily interactions. Education is another way I shine my light. By dedicating myself to learning—reading, staying informed about current events, and seeking out opportunities to grow—I’m preparing myself to be an effective advocate and leader. I believe that knowledge is a tool for empowerment, and sharing that knowledge with others creates a ripple effect of positive change. On a personal level, shining my light means being a role model for my family and community. I want to show younger generations, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, that their dreams are valid and achievable. My journey demonstrates that with determination, education, and a commitment to service, it’s possible to overcome challenges and create meaningful change. In the long run, the legacy I hope to leave is one of empowerment—helping people reclaim their voices, protect their rights, and build better futures. I want my business to be remembered not just for its legal successes but for its heart, its integrity, and its dedication to justice. This legacy will be a reflection of who I am and what I stand for: a commitment to lifting others up and shining a light on the path toward equality. Building this legacy won’t be easy, and I know it will take hard work, resilience, and continuous learning. But I am ready to face those challenges because I believe deeply in the power of service and the importance of leaving the world a better place than I found it. That’s the legacy I’m determined to create.

I’m someone who believes that real change starts with small, consistent acts of service. Growing up, I saw firsthand how community support can make a difference, especially for people facing tough challenges. This inspired me to get involved in volunteering, where I found both purpose and a way to give back. My most meaningful volunteer experience has been working at an immigration assistance clinic. There, I help people navigate the complex and often confusing legal processes related to their status. Many of the individuals I’ve worked with have faced hardships similar to my own family’s—displacement, uncertainty, and the struggle to build a new life in a foreign country. Through this work, I’ve learned how important empathy and patience are. It’s not just about understanding legal forms or procedures, but about listening to people’s stories, fears, and hopes. Volunteering has also taught me how powerful advocacy can be. Even small gestures—helping someone fill out paperwork, explaining their rights, or just being a supportive presence—can have a big impact. I’ve seen clients’ relief and gratitude when they finally understand their options or receive good news after long waits. Those moments have reinforced my commitment to working for justice and equity. This experience has shaped my personal and professional goals. I plan to continue helping others by pursuing a degree in political science and then law school, focusing on immigration law. I want to be an advocate who not only understands the law but also understands the people behind the cases. I hope to open my own law firm one day, dedicated to serving immigrant communities and fighting for their rights. Beyond my future career, I am committed to ongoing volunteer work. I believe that giving back isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s a lifelong responsibility. I plan to stay involved in community organizations and legal aid groups, and to mentor others who want to help but don’t know where to start. Volunteering has shown me that every person can make a difference, and I want to inspire others to get involved as well. In short, volunteering has been more than just a way to help others—it’s helped me grow as a person. It’s deepened my understanding of the challenges people face and strengthened my resolve to be part of the solution. I’m excited to continue this journey, both through my education and through ongoing community service. And I will continue to pursue service after into my career

Growing up Egyptian with a close connection to my Palestinian family has given me a unique perspective on identity, resilience, and the meaning of community. While I was born and raised in an Egyptian household, my Palestinian relatives’ stories of displacement, struggle, and hope have been a constant presence in my life. This dual heritage has shaped who I am, influencing my values, my sense of justice, and my dreams for the future. From a young age, I heard stories about my Palestinian family’s experiences—stories of homes left behind, of borders crossed under difficult circumstances, and of a strong determination to preserve culture and dignity despite hardship. These stories were more than history lessons; they were lessons in perseverance, resistance, and the power of standing up for one’s rights. Witnessing the strength in these stories has inspired me to embrace my own identity with pride and responsibility. My Egyptian upbringing combined with my Palestinian heritage has taught me the importance of empathy and advocacy. I see how displacement and political struggles can affect entire families and communities, often in ways that are invisible to the broader world. These experiences have fueled my passion for justice and human rights. They have made me realize that I want to use my education and future career to serve those whose voices are often unheard, especially in the areas of immigration and international law. Educationally, I am focused on completing my undergraduate degree in political science, which will provide me with a solid foundation in understanding government systems, policy, and the legal frameworks that affect people’s lives. I plan to continue my studies by attending law school, specializing in immigration law. My goal is to become an attorney who can advocate for immigrant communities, many of whom face challenges similar to those experienced by my Palestinian family. I want to help ensure that others receive fair treatment and the opportunity to build new lives without fear or discrimination. Beyond my professional goals, my heritage also drives me to be a bridge between cultures. I want to promote understanding and dialogue, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about Middle Eastern identities. By embracing both my Egyptian roots and Palestinian family ties, I hope to foster connection and solidarity within diverse communities. Ultimately, my heritage has given me a profound sense of purpose. It has taught me that identity is not just about where you come from, but about how you carry those stories forward. It has instilled in me the belief that education is a powerful tool for change, and that through my future career, I can contribute to a more just and compassionate world. In summary, my Egyptian background combined with my Palestinian family experiences has deeply influenced who I am and what I want to accomplish. It has shaped my educational path toward political science and law and fueled my commitment to advocate for immigrant rights. I am proud of my heritage and am motivated to use it as a source of strength and inspiration as I work toward making a positive impact in my community and beyond.

One legal issue that deeply changed my perspective on the world—and shaped my desire to pursue a career in law—is the treatment of undocumented minors in the U.S. immigration system. Learning that a child can be brought to this country without any say in the matter, grow up here, and still be treated as a criminal for their immigration status opened my eyes to the harsh realities of a system that often lacks compassion, fairness, and common sense. One specific case that stuck with me involved a teenager who was brought to the U.S. as a toddler. He grew up here—attended American schools, spoke English fluently, and knew nothing of the country he had left behind. To him, the United States was home in every way that mattered. He had no criminal record, no history of violence, and no personal responsibility for his immigration status. Yet when he turned 18, he was picked up by immigration enforcement, detained, and placed in removal proceedings simply because he lacked legal documentation. He wasn’t given a path to fix his status or even real legal representation. Instead, he was treated as if he had committed a crime, not as someone who had been failed by an outdated and unjust system. What struck me most was how dehumanizing the process was. This wasn’t just about immigration—it was about identity, belonging, and fairness. How could a country pride itself on being a land of opportunity, yet allow a young person raised here to be cast out like a stranger? That case made me realize how disconnected policy can be from reality, and how deeply broken the system is for the people who fall through its cracks. It also made me see law in a new light. I had always viewed the legal system as something rigid—rules, statutes, courtrooms. But that case taught me that the law is also about storytelling. It’s about making someone’s voice heard in a system that often reduces people to case numbers. It’s about advocacy, and pushing back against laws that don’t reflect justice. That realization is what drove me to want to become an immigration attorney. I want to be the person standing beside someone like that teenager, making sure they’re not forgotten, making sure their story is told with the dignity it deserves. This issue is also deeply personal to me. Like that teenager, I was brought to the United States as a child. I had no control over how I arrived, but I’ve worked hard every day to build a future here. I’ve faced the same uncertainty, the same fear, and the same sense of being caught between two worlds. I know what it’s like to live with the weight of an immigration status that defines so many aspects of your life—even when you’ve done everything right. Learning about that case didn’t just make me angry—it motivated me. It reminded me that change doesn’t just happen through protests or politics, but through representation. Through having someone in the courtroom who knows what’s at stake. I want to be that person. And that case was the spark that made me realize I could be. This legal issue didn’t just change how I view the law—it changed how I see my purpose. And it’s why I’m committed to pursuing a legal career where I can fight for fairness, dignity, and justice for people who too often have none.

Growing up undocumented has shaped almost every part of my life. It’s not just a label—it’s a constant obstacle that affects education, employment, and even peace of mind. While other students were thinking about driver’s licenses or applying for jobs, I was learning to live in the shadows. I had to work twice as hard to access half the opportunities. There were times when I felt invisible—like no matter how hard I tried, the system wasn’t built for someone like me. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is financial instability. Without access to federal aid, every semester of college has felt like a gamble. I’ve relied on state-based programs, private scholarships, and sheer determination to stay enrolled. There were times I didn’t know if I’d make it to the next semester, not because I lacked motivation or ability, but because I simply couldn’t afford it. Balancing school, part-time work, and stress about finances has taken a toll, but I’ve never let it stop me. Another obstacle has been uncertainty. When your future depends on laws and policies that can change overnight, it’s hard to plan ahead. There have been moments when I questioned if pursuing higher education was even worth it—if I’d ever be able to use the degree I worked so hard for. But I’ve held onto hope, and I’ve kept pushing forward because I believe that education is the key to breaking cycles and opening doors not just for myself, but for my family and others in my community. This scholarship would make an incredible difference. It would mean one less semester of worrying about whether I can afford tuition or housing. It would allow me to focus fully on my studies and continue working toward my dream of becoming an immigration lawyer. More than that, it would be a reminder that people believe in me—even when the system hasn’t. I’m not asking for a handout. I’m asking for a chance. A chance to prove what I can do when I’m given the tools and support to succeed. I’ve overcome too much to stop now, and with the help of this scholarship, I know I can finish my degree, go to law school, and one day give back to others who are walking the same path I am now. Thank you for considering my story, and for offering students like me a way forward in the journey of college.

I am currently pursuing a degree in political science, with the long-term goal of attending law school. My focus is on immigration law, driven by my personal experiences and a strong desire to advocate for those who often feel unseen or unheard in the legal system. As someone from an underrepresented background, I understand how powerful it can be to have someone fighting in your corner—and I want to be that person for others. At one point, I seriously considered joining the United States Marine Corps through the officer program, specifically with the goal of becoming a JAG (Judge Advocate General) attorney. The idea of serving my country while using my legal education to make a real impact was appealing. The structure, Even now, that option still crosses my mind. There’s a part of me that’s drawn to the discipline, leadership, and mission-driven work that comes with being a Marine Corps officer. But I’ve also had to seriously weigh the realities—both personal and professional—of committing to military service. I know that path requires sacrifice, and while I have great respect for those who serve, I’m also considering whether I might be able to make just as much of an impact by staying on a civilian path in the legal field. At this point, I haven’t ruled it out entirely, but I’m leaning more toward building my career outside the military. After graduation, my goal is to go straight into law school and eventually become an immigration attorney. I want to work directly with immigrant families, helping them navigate a system that’s often overwhelming and intimidating. I’ve seen how complicated and unfair the immigration process can be, especially for people who don’t speak the language, don’t have resources, or are dealing with fear and uncertainty. I want to help fix that—not just by representing clients in court, but by eventually starting my own immigration law firm that offers accessible legal services and advocates for policy reform. Whether I serve in the military or not, I’m committed to serving others. That’s what drives everything I do. My education isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about preparing myself to create change, provide support, and be a voice for those who need one. Political science gives me the foundation to understand how systems work, and law will give me the tools to fight for justice within them. In the end, I want a career where I can look back and say I made people’s lives better, safer, and more hopeful. That’s what success means to me.

Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent and reduce intimate partner violence. Many people, especially young people, don’t grow up learning what healthy communication or respectful relationships look like. Instead, they may witness or experience harmful behaviors and begin to see them as normal. When schools and communities invest in educating people about emotional intelligence, consent, boundaries, and self-worth, it gives individuals the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and others. Education also helps dismantle the stigma around speaking up. When people learn that it’s okay to ask for help and that abuse isn’t always physical, they are more likely to recognize when something is wrong and take action. Beyond that, community-based education programs can help families and neighbors understand how to support survivors and interrupt cycles of violence early on. I’m currently pursuing a degree in political science, and I plan to attend law school in Fall 2028. My long-term goal is to become an immigration attorney and eventually open my own law firm focused on serving undocumented individuals and immigrant families. I’ve witnessed how easily people can fall through the cracks of the legal system, especially when they are isolated by language barriers, fear of deportation, or limited financial resources. That isolation can also leave people trapped in abusive situations with no one to turn to. My dream is to build a practice that not only provides strong legal defense and representation but also helps clients understand their rights, access resources, and rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Outside of school, I stay informed and engaged by reading the news daily and following immigration law developments. I also volunteer at a local immigration legal clinic, where I help with intake and translation for families navigating complex legal situations. These real-world experiences have shown me the emotional toll the legal system can take on people who don’t have the support they need. It’s what motivates me to keep going. There was a time in high school when I spoke out against an unfair school policy that was disproportionately affecting undocumented students. I faced backlash from administrators and peers, but I organized a small group of students to raise awareness and speak to the school board. It didn’t lead to immediate change, but it started conversations that hadn’t happened before. That experience taught me that change often begins with discomfort and risk, but staying silent only allows injustice to continue. If I had the resources to create a philanthropic initiative, I would start a fund that provides legal and housing support for undocumented survivors of domestic violence. Too often, these individuals are left to choose between safety and deportation. I want to create a world where no one has to make that choice. My journey is just beginning, but I know exactly where I want it to lead: toward justice, equity, and being a voice for those who feel voiceless.

Question 1: I plan to begin law school in the Fall of 2028. Since it is still a few years away, I have not yet applied to any law schools or placed a seat deposit. I am using this time to prepare myself academically and gain practical experience that will help me succeed in law school and beyond. Question 2: My short-term career goal after law school is to work as an immigration attorney, helping individuals and families navigate the complex legal system to secure their rights and futures. My long-term dream is to establish my own immigration law firm, where I can provide accessible, compassionate legal services to underserved immigrant communities. I want to create a space that not only advocates for justice but also empowers clients through education and support. Question 3: Outside of formal education, I pursue learning and intellectual growth by staying up to date with current events and legal developments through news outlets and legal journals. Additionally, I volunteer regularly at an immigration assistance clinic, where I support people with paperwork and provide them guidance during stressful legal processes. This hands-on experience has deepened my understanding of the challenges immigrants face and solidified my passion for immigration law. Question 4: A moment that stands out to me occurred during my time volunteering at the immigration clinic. I witnessed a family struggling to understand their legal rights amid language barriers and confusing paperwork. I stood up to ensure they received the attention and respect they deserved, advocating for clearer communication and more compassionate service. Despite some resistance from overwhelmed staff, I persisted, and my actions helped improve the clinic’s approach to assisting vulnerable clients. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and speaking up even when it’s difficult—values that I carry with me as I pursue a legal career. Question 5: If I had the resources to create a philanthropic initiative, I would start a legal education and advocacy program for undocumented youth. Many young people face immense uncertainty about their futures due to immigration status and a lack of accessible legal resources. My program would offer workshops, one-on-one legal counseling, and mentorship to empower these youth with knowledge and tools to advocate for themselves and their communities. This cause is deeply personal to me, as I have seen firsthand how legal barriers impact immigrant families, and I want to help break down those barriers so that everyone has a fair chance at success. In conclusion, attending UMass Boston and receiving a merit scholarship will be instrumental in helping me achieve my goal of becoming an immigration attorney and eventually opening my own law firm. The education and experiences I gain will equip me to serve immigrant communities with compassion and dedication. This opportunity will not only lessen the financial burden on my family but also allow me to focus fully on my studies and volunteer work. I am committed to using my legal career to make a meaningful impact, breaking down barriers for those who face challenges similar to my own. With UMass Boston’s support, I will be empowered to turn my dreams into reality and give back to the community that has shaped me.

I grew up in a world where silence felt safer than truth. As a queer undocumented student, every part of my identity came with risk of judgment, rejection, or worse, deportation. But over time, I learned that silence doesn’t protect you. Visibility does. And now, as someone deeply engaged in both the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities, I’ve turned those risks into purpose. My experience in the LGBTQ+ community has never been one of distance. I’ve lived it I navigated its challenges, leaned on its support systems, and slowly grown into someone who can offer the same to others. In high school, I co-founded an informal peer circle for queer students of color, many of whom—like me—were navigating intersectional challenges of race, immigration status, and sexuality. It was in that group that I first saw the power of community-building. We were just kids, but we became lifelines to each other in the absence of institutional support. Since then, giving back to this community hasn’t been a dream; it’s been a responsibility. I’m now studying political science because I’ve seen first-hand how laws can erase people—or protect them. My experiences as both undocumented and queer have fueled a deep desire to not only understand the system, but eventually become part of it. My dream is to become a civil rights or immigration attorney, fighting for marginalized voices that are too often silenced. Law is not just a career path for me uit’s a form of activism, a way to turn pain into policy. Getting accepted into UMass Boston was a turning point for me. It was the moment I realized that despite the systemic barriers, my goals are still valid. But the reality is, higher education as an undocumented student is incredibly difficult to finance. While I’ve qualified for in-state tuition and some state aid, crucial costs like housing and food are still left uncovered. My family and I work hard, but we live check to check—and every dollar toward college is a sacrifice. That’s why this scholarship would mean more than just financial support—it would mean stability, security, and a little less stress in a world that already asks us to carry so much. It would give me the ability to focus on my education, to stay on track for law school, and to continue uplifting the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities I care so deeply about. More than anything, it would be an investment in someone who doesn’t just dream of giving back—but is already doing it, and ready to do more.

Dear Members of the Scholarship Committee, I am writing to apply for the Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship, and I’d like to take this opportunity to share my story with you. My name is [Your Name], and I am currently pursuing a degree in [Your Major] at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. While my journey has been shaped by challenges, my passion for learning, my aspirations, and my determination to make a meaningful difference have driven me to continue pushing forward. I come from a background where education wasn’t always a given, but it was always something I knew could change my life. Growing up, I faced financial struggles that made the pursuit of higher education seem distant, but I never let that deter me. I understood the power of education early on—how it could open doors, change lives, and offer opportunities that were previously unattainable. This understanding fueled my desire to achieve academic success and ultimately pursue a career in the law. Throughout my academic journey, I’ve cultivated a deep passion for [mention specific subjects, areas of interest, or activities]. Whether it’s through my coursework, extracurricular activities, or community service, I’ve always sought opportunities to challenge myself and grow. I’m especially passionate about political science and the law, as I believe it aligns with my goal of Becoming a lawyer and I am determined to make an impact in this field. In addition to my academic endeavors, I have gained invaluable experiences from [mention personal experiences, volunteer work, leadership roles, or any other significant events]. These experiences have taught me resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of empathy and collaboration. They have shaped my character and solidified my commitment to making a difference in the world, whether through my future career or community involvement. As I continue my education, I am fully aware that the financial burden of college is a challenge that many students face, including myself. This scholarship would ease that burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and continue working toward my dream of becoming an Immigration Attorney. It would not only provide financial relief but also affirm the hard work I’ve put into my academic and personal growth. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship and for your consideration. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the community and beyond. Sincerely, Mohamed Ahmed

My story begins with borders not just the physical ones between nations, but the invisible ones that shaped my childhood: paperwork, policies, and procedures I barely understood but felt the weight of every day. Growing up in a family affected by immigration challenges, I witnessed firsthand how legal complexities could define someone’s future. Fear was part of our daily vocabulary fear of missteps, delays, or the possibility of losing everything to a process we couldn't afford to misunderstand. it is no secret thaw Lawyers are not cheap, however when you face a issue of either staying in the only country you know and call home or starting fresh elsewhere you never seen before you tend to not have a choice. But instead of discouraging me, that uncertainty fueled a fire in me. From a young age, I found myself asking questions others couldn't answer: Why is the system so complicated? Who writes the rules, and who makes sure they’re fair? That curiosity slowly evolved into a calling. I realized that to truly understand the forces that shaped my family’s life and to change them I needed to study the system itself. That’s what led me to major in political science and set my sights on becoming a lawyer. My dream is not just to earn a law degree but to become an immigration attorney who stands at the intersection of law and humanity. I want to be the voice I wish my family had years ago someone who can translate fear into hope and confusion into clarity. I believe that real change begins with understanding, and law is the language through which I want to speak that change for people who were not able to receive such a thing. I’m passionate about fulfilling this dream because I’ve lived its importance. This isn’t abstract for me it’s personal. Every application, every deadline, every hearing left an imprint on my life. I carry that experience not as a burden but as fuel. It reminds me why I fight so hard to stay on this path, even when it’s difficult. This scholarship would not just support my education it would honor the journey that brought me here and help me take one step closer to the courtroom where I intend to make a difference. I’m ready to turn the challenges of my past into the justice of someone else’s future. Sincerely, Mohamed Ahmed

Books have always been more than just paper and ink to me they’ve been mentors, challengers, and portals into worlds both imagined and real. Each book I’ve read has left a distinct imprint, shaping the way I think, feel, and envision my place in the world. They have not only expanded my understanding of society but have deeply influenced the trajectory of my goals. Reading The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho introduced me to the idea that every individual has a “Personal Legend” a purpose that pulls them toward fulfillment. That concept lit a fire within me, encouraging me to think of my goals not just in terms of success, but in terms of meaning. This inspired my desire to pursue a life of impact, one where I can blend passion with purpose in whatever field I enter. Books like Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou taught me about resilience, identity, and the power of voice. These stories helped me recognize how personal struggles and societal systems intersect, and how education can serve as a force for equity and transformation. Through their words, I understood that my goals should not only serve me but also those whose stories often go unheard. Literature has also sharpened my critical thinking. Whether analyzing the satire in Orwell’s 1984 or interpreting the layered symbolism in Toni Morrison’s Beloved, I’ve learned how to see beyond surface narratives and uncover deeper truths. This ability to question, reflect, and synthesize ideas has become central to how I learn and how I hope to lead. Ultimately, books have helped me craft a goal that goes beyond titles and degrees. I aim to become someone who uses knowledge to inspire progress, someone who writes, speaks, and acts with purpose. Whether in law, education, or public service, I want to elevate stories, challenge systems, and build bridges between people. This scholarship represents more than financial support it represents an investment in someone shaped by the stories of others and ready to author a meaningful story of his own. My Father used to always make me read 1 book every single week and he would read ahead of me and I would be required to write him a report on the book. It shaped me and I did not realize the benefits I was gaining from it. Thank you for considering me as a candidate. Warm regards, Mohamed Ahmed.

Dear Scholarship Committee, I am Mohamed and I am deeply passionate about understanding how the past, human cultures, political structures, and geography shape our present and future. As a student at UMASS Dartmouth, I am eager to apply the lessons learned from fields like history, cultural anthropology, political science, and geography to make a meaningful impact on the world. I have always been fascinated by the ways in which historical events shape societies and influence human behavior. Through my studies, I have gained an appreciation for how interconnected our world is, and how understanding cultural contexts and political dynamics can help foster peace, equity, and social justice. I believe that a deep understanding of history and culture is essential for addressing global challenges such as inequality, conflict, and environmental crises. In particular, my coursework in political science has opened my eyes to the power of policy and governance in shaping the future of nations. By learning about the structures and systems that have led to both progress and setbacks in human history, I plan to engage in work that addresses systemic issues, especially in areas of immigration, global human rights, and international relations. My knowledge of geography allows me to understand how physical and social landscapes impact global interactions and local communities, and I am committed to using this understanding to promote sustainable development and environmental responsibility. Through this scholarship, I hope to further my education and gain the tools necessary to contribute to global solutions. I am committed to applying the lessons of the past and the knowledge I acquire in these fields to make a difference, whether through policy, education, or direct community engagement. I am passionate about making the world a more equitable place, and I firmly believe that understanding the intricacies of history, culture, politics, and geography is key to creating lasting, positive change. I also plan to pursuit becoming a lawyer in the future. In light of this I have a lot of college expenses ahead of me ln light of this, this scholarship would be perfect for me. My goal writing this is not to write as much possible but just what is needed for who ever is to read this to understand me. That’s what’s most important. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my studies and use what I learn to improve the world we share.