Rising Above: First Literacy Scholars Graduate and Look Ahead to the Future

Written by Julie Slack, First Literacy Marketing and Communications Director

Graduation marks more than just the end of a school chapter, for First Literacy scholars; it represents triumph over adversity, a renewed sense of purpose, and the beginning of new opportunities. This year, we proudly celebrate six scholars who earned college degrees and certificates despite facing immense challenges. Their journeys reflect perseverance, strength, and the life-changing impact of education.

From Stay-at-Home Mom to Academic Standout

After 14 years as a stay-at-home mother, Dania made the life-changing decision to return to school. A single mother of three daughters, Dania is celebrating the completion of her associate degree in Business Administration from Middlesex Community College.

Dania at the Middlesex Community College graduation ceremony.

Since beginning her studies in fall 2022, Dania has taken classes year-round, all while raising her children and working part-time as a statistics tutor at Middlesex Community College’s Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE).

In 2023, Dania was awarded a First Literacy Scholarship, a turning point that eased financial stress and provided the support she needed to further her education.

“The First Literacy scholarship helped me stay focused on school. It covered some of the costs that would’ve been difficult for me to manage on my own while raising three girls. But more than that, it showed me that someone believed in me and wanted to see me succeed. Their support truly made me feel seen, supported and encouraged.”

Dania also received the Excellence Award for Business Administration Transfer, which recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and commitment to their field of study. This fall, she will continue her education at UMass Boston, where she has been accepted into the Management Finance program.

From Overnight Shifts to IT Success

In 2021, Fernande and her family arrived in the United States seeking peace and opportunity after facing political instability in their home country. Now living in Boston, Fernande is celebrating her graduation from Bunker Hill Community College with a certificate in IT Support, a major step toward her long-term dream of becoming a computer scientist.

Fernande at her graduation ceremony at Bunker Hill Community College.

While taking classes, Fernande worked overnight shifts and cared for a newborn. She began her educational journey in ESOL classes at the Community Learning Center and then entered the Bridge to College program, which led her to coursework at Bunker Hill Community College. In 2022, Fernande received a First Literacy scholarship that helped her manage tuition and academic costs.

“This support allows me to focus more on my studies without the added burden of financial stress.”

Fernande plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree to deepen her skills and qualifications in the IT field.

Pursuing a New Career at the Age of 54

Kamrunnaher at her graduation ceremony at Quincy College.

Kamrunnaher, was born and raised in Bangladesh. A mother of two, she made the difficult decision to leave behind a hard-earned government job to support her daughters’ educational dreams in the United States. Starting over was not easy, but Kamrunnaher committed herself to full-time work, parenting, and studying.

With a background in zoology and a passion for biology, she discovered an interest in biotechnology. Through the Bridges to College program at JVS Boston, she enrolled in Quincy College and pursued a certificate in Biotechnology and Good Manufacturing Practices.

In 2024, she received a First Literacy Scholarship that helped her stay focused despite the financial and emotional hurdles of adapting to a new life.

“The scholarship provided me with not only financial relief but also emotional encouragement to keep going. It made me feel seen, supported, and valued.”

Now, with her certificate in hand, Kamrunnaher plans to enter the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries and inspire other adult learners to believe in their potential.

Mother Graduates from Nursing Program with Big Dreams Ahead

After three years of perseverance, hard work, and sacrifice, Katia graduated from Bunker Hill Community College

Katia at the Bunker Hill Community College graduation.

with an Associate of Science in Nursing. This milestone marks an important step toward her goal of becoming a registered nurse.

A mother, wife, and working professional with two jobs, Katia was able to reduce her hours thanks to the First Literacy Scholarship, which allowed her to focus on her studies and clinical training.

“It made a significant difference in my success.”

Next, Katia plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and deepen her skills in patient care. Her advice to others:

“Don’t give up. There will be challenges, but with perseverance and support, your goals are absolutely within reach.”

Proving Language Is No Limit to Learning

Yane moved to the United States from China determined to earn a college degree and create a better life for her son.

Yane at the Bunker Hill Community College graduation.

Language barriers and childcare challenges made the transition difficult, but Yane stayed focused on her goals.

After completing the ESL program at the Asian American Civic Association, she was nominated for a First Literacy Scholarship in 2020. The support she received made it possible for her to buy textbooks, access a laptop, and stay on track toward her degree in Early Childhood Education.

“Without their encouragement and support, I might not have been able to persevere until today. It was their financial support and warm concern for my well-being that enabled me to get through that difficult time.”

Yane celebrated her graduation from Bunker Hill Community College this May. This fall, she plans to continue her studies toward a bachelor’s degree.

Rising Above Challenges to Achieve a College Degree

Khadija moved to the United States in 2016. A few years after arriving in the U.S. she was faced with great obstacles. Armed with courage and determination, she was determined to rebuild her life in the U.S. and made the decision to pursue a career in social services.

Khadija celebrating her graduation from Bunker Hill Community College.

In 2021 Khadija was nominated for a First Literacy scholarship and enrolled at Bunker Hill Community College. While her path has been anything but easy she persisted in balancing the demands of coursework with financial pressures and life responsibilities.

This May, Khadija graduated with an associate degree in Human Services. Her long-term goal is to become a social worker, using her own lived experience and compassion to guide and support others through difficult times.

“Without the First Literacy scholarship, I would not be able to get my degree. This scholarship was fundamental to achieving this goal.”

Khadija hopes her story inspires others who are considering taking the leap back into education.

Scholarships Help Dreams Take Flight

Each year, First Literacy awards $1,500 scholarships to recent graduates of Massachusetts Adult Basic Education (ABE) or English language programs who are continuing to vocational training or higher education. Since the program’s launch in 1990, over 600 scholarships have been awarded to adult learners across the state in recognition of educational achievements, community service, and perseverance.

Congratulations to Dania, Fernande, Kamrunnaher, Katia, Yane, and Khadija. We are proud to support you in your journey and wish you continued success on the road ahead!