From War to Wellness: Heal and Build Resilience

Syrian, from Homs; seeking Undergraduate degree in Psychology and is enrolled at Salve Regina University.  

While faced with setbacks and constant upheavals, I discovered an inner stability and resilience that helped me cope with life’s tests.

For the past five years, my family and I have continued to deal with the consequences of our decision to leave Syria.

In 2020, I left Syria for the first time at age 17 with my sister. We had to deal with smugglers and dangerous routes. We endured 2 months under huge mental and physical pressure only to be caught by the police and given three days to return to Syria. Our dreams of reaching a safe haven were dashed.

By the time we reached home, it was the midpoint of the academic year. I had one choice: I opened my 12th-grade books and studied under candlelight during power cuts. In just five months, I passed my "Baccalaureate" exams, which typically take a year and a half of preparation, scoring 88.55%.

I was uprooted again when I moved to Turkey with my family. I completed a year and a half at Abdullah Gül University majoring in molecular biology and genetics. I had to drop out again to care for my younger sister because my parents had to leave Turkey. While supporting her, I took on household responsibilities and worked two part-time jobs to cover our living expenses.

Amidst the chaos of my life, one thing remained stable: my drive, perseverance, and determination to find my place in the world. I aim to advocate for better mental and holistic health, especially for underprivileged communities. I'm one step closer to reaching my goals; I got accepted to Salve Regina University to study Psychology. Therefore, your donation will help me fulfill my potential.

Why Would Donors Fund You?

I am a resilient and ambitious student who has always made the most of every opportunity offered to me. The four years of knowledge-building at Salve, combined with the experiences as a Salve Leadership Scholar, will empower me to serve as an ambassador dedicated to addressing the needs of disadvantaged and war-traumatized individuals, particularly women, thereby promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

How Do You Plan to Payback?

My goal is to contribute to Syria's redevelopment by alleviating people affected by the trauma of war. This educational experience will provide me with profound insight into the psychological effects of trauma, particularly in conflict zones. With the little knowledge gained during my first year at Abdullah Gul University, I'm already working on launching my initiative, Neuro Nurture Program, which focuses on mindful living, and promoting a healthy lifestyle for Syrian youth.

In the future, equipped with a strong foundation of knowledge at Salve Regina University, I plan to work as a mental health psychologist in refugee camps and to expand my initiative work.

Volunteer Work/Social Capital

English Tutor - Paper Airplanes

• Teaching students impacted by conflict to improve their English Language.

Program Assistant - Together We Seek Peaks

• Tutoring students in writing academic research papers in English.

Mentor and Communication Manager - VIP Fund & edSeed

• Managing the communication team to align with the marketing calendar.
• Mentoring students in publishing their campaigns.

Extracurricular Advisor - Syrian Youth Empowerment

• Empowering students to uncover their passion.

Orientation Program Volunteer - Abdullah Gul University

• Provided support to incoming international students ensuring a smooth transition.

Mentor - Science United Festival

• Shared my journey to inspire underprivileged students.

What Have You Done to Improve Yourself? Awards and Achievements

Awards:

• Academic Excellence in All Subjects' award In Al Amal School 10th and 11th grades.
• Ochre Scholarship: A merit scholarship for Studying at Salve Regine University.
• Leadership Scholars Program at Salve Regina University.

Extracurricular Activities:

• English Tutor
• Concierge Agent
• Scientific Researcher
• Voluntary Work

Training:

• Jusoor Academic Mentorship & SYE one-year program
• Intensive Customer Service training
• Microsoft Program with Paper Airplanes (Women in Tech)
• Aspire Leaders Program