I am Rana Rashid Shaat, a pharmacy student. As the third daughter, my family highly values medical education; my sisters are studying medicine and dentistry. However, tuition fees are a significant burden.

Being from Gaza, Palestine, means facing enormous challenges to maintain my education. Since the beginning of the war, we lost our home—our refuge and stability. This forced us to search for humiliating temporary shelters and endure daily struggles for survival. Living in a tent, with its constant noise, dim lighting, and lack of privacy, made online learning extremely difficult. Nevertheless, I strived to improve my grades, believing it to be my only weapon. Every academic endeavor required a double effort due to the power outages and weak internet. I refused to give up.

The greatest shock was the loss of my brother. This devastating blow shook my family, sending us on a frantic search for him, battling the fear of arrest. Despite the intense grief and fear that hindered my concentration, our unwavering faith in God empowered me to persevere. Surrendering to despair.

Therefore, despite these ongoing daily challenges, my resolve to continue my education and achieve success remains unwavering. This path is arduous, requiring increased effort in the face of power outages, limited academic resources, and constant psychological pressure. Nevertheless, I am determined to face these challenges. Every ordeal has refined me and deepened my appreciation for educational opportunities. This scholarship will be a lifeline, enabling me to fully dedicate myself to my studies, overcome financial obstacles, and graduate to contribute effectively to the future of my country. It will prove that willpower and determination are capable of conquering the impossible, even in the most difficult circumstances. My strong desire is to continue my education and graduate without any financial obstacles, driven by unwavering determination and perseverance.

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Rana Rasheed Shaat | Gaza, Palestine

By Arab Student Aid International

Rana Rasheed Shaat | Gaza, Palestine

Major: Pharamcy