Soonya is current recipient of a Friends of Zainab Scholarship. She eloquently shares with us below what the impact of such a scholarship can have on her life.
Dear Public Education Foundation,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for being awarded the Public Education Foundation (PEF) scholarship of $4,000 for the past two years. Your generous support has had a significant impact on my educational journey, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunities it has provided me.
Receiving the PEF scholarship has been an incredible blessing for me. It has alleviated a considerable financial burden and allowed me to focus more on my studies and personal growth. The scholarship funds have directly assisted me in covering tuition fees, purchasing textbooks and a laptop, and accessing various educational resources. Moreover, it has given me the freedom to participate in extracurricular activities and invest my time in gaining practical experience through internships and volunteering opportunities.
The impact of the PEF scholarship extends beyond financial assistance. It has motivated me to strive for excellence in my academic pursuits and has reinforced my belief in the power of education to create positive change. Through this scholarship, I have become more aware of the invaluable support that organizations like yours provide to students, and I am inspired to pay it forward by making a difference in the lives of others in the future.
When I shared the news of receiving the PEF scholarship with my family, their joy knew no bounds. They were immensely proud of my achievements and overwhelmed by the generosity of the Public Education Foundation. The scholarship has not only eased the financial strain on my family but has also reinforced their belief in the transformative power of education. They have become strong advocates for scholarships and are extremely grateful to organizations like yours for enabling students to pursue their dreams.
Speaking of dreams and aspirations, my ultimate goal is to become a parliamentarian fighting for women’s rights and equality while also establishing myself as a successful businesswoman. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor of Business degree at the University of Western Australia, with a double major in Global Business and Political Science and International Relations.
My studies in Global Business are equipping me with a comprehensive understanding of the global marketplace, international trade, and cross-cultural management. Simultaneously, my coursework in Political Science and International Relations is sharpening my analytical skills and providing me with a deep understanding of political systems, policies, and strategies.
By combining these two fields, I aim to develop a holistic perspective that will enable me to bridge the gap between business and politics. I firmly believe that empowering women and achieving gender equality requires systemic change, both in legislation and business practices.
With my academic background and passion for women’s rights, I aspire to contribute to shaping policies and advocating for initiatives that foster gender equality, economic empowerment, and social progress.
I am indebted to the Public Education Foundation for believing in my potential and providing me with the means to pursue my education. Your support has bolstered my confidence, reaffirmed my commitment to my goals, and has inspired me to make a positive impact on society.
Once again, thank you for your generosity and dedication to empowering students like me. I am eternally grateful for the opportunities that the PEF scholarship has bestowed upon me. I look forward to staying connected with the Foundation and contributing to its mission in the future.
With sincere appreciation,
Soonya Batool
