Finding My Own Path in Life

A dream can alter so much in a person’s life – it affects everyone in varying degrees and propels people to push themselves towards a better future. My life is nothing short of an example to prove this claim. Having spent my childhood years engrossed in hopes of studying English, to become a journalist, I was quite struck down by fate in an accident. I lost my eyesight, and with it the care and attention that family members extend. Neglect and apathy reigned supreme during my childhood and I was left to fend for myself on the ruthless streets of Morocco. Even then, I persevered and struggled to look for avenues that would provide me shelter and respite from the callousness I had to face because I couldn’t see. I firmly believe that it was this endurance that later opened doors for me. Doors I never thought existed. Not for me, at least.

Although I could not attend school until I was seventeen, I did graduate from high school for the blind in 2013. Six years later, I enrolled in an English program in a university in Morocco. It was during this time that someone recommended the Moroccan-American Commission for Educational and Cultural Exchange (MACECE) and advised me to explore USA as a viable place to pursue my studies.

Ever since I embarked on that journey, I knew that it was possible to be treated like someone who mattered. Not only was I encouraged emotionally by the people at MACECE, I was also equipped to deal with the constant hurdles my impaired vision presented on a daily basis. In truth, a support system began to weave around me and I could not believe it. It was at MACECE that I found that my English proficiency could be improved; I would only have to work harder for it. So, I got ready for yet another milestone in my life and started preparing for the GRE and other exams I would have to take to prove my mettle. And so I did.

In 2016, I applied to the Fulbright scholarship and was accepted into the program after successfully completing all the stages in the application process. Words cannot suffice the hard work I had to put in to get to this point. From the GRE prep to writing the perfect Statement of Purpose, everything required my scrutiny and immense concentration. But I was successful! For me, the Fulbright program is more than just a scholarship. It is a legacy left by the founder, and millions are reaping its benefits. For me, Senator J, William Fulbright will live eternally.

It is through this program that I acquired a stronger identity, and built a family of my own in Arkansas. I relied on the kindness of strangers, and not a moment goes by when I don’t feel eternally grateful for all that I have amassed. It is more than just knowledge – I’ve made lifelong friends and an unbreakable bond with people. I have learnt that it is very much possible to achieve great heights in this world, and being blind doesn’t mean you have no vision for yourself and what you can become. From being cast away at a young age, to finding my strengths and paving my path for a better future, I have done it.

The challenges that seemed insurmountable no longer do. I have drawn immense courage from being treated equally by my professors and peers. The Fulbright Program has left no stone unturned in ensuring that I am able to reach the pedestal I set for myself long ago. My work as a journalist will now carry on my voice and will penetrate the shroud of darkness that engulfs people. I hope to lift people out of it so that their dreams also come to fruition one day.