"Thanks to the scholarship program, I was able to pursue my dream of working in healthcare policy to help communities in need."

My journey into public health began in the clinics of Ramallah, where I volunteered during my undergraduate years. I witnessed firsthand the challenges facing our healthcare system – limited resources, restricted access to medical supplies, and the impact of ongoing conflict on community health.

After completing my bachelor's degree in Biology at Birzeit University, I was determined to gain the knowledge and skills needed to address these systemic healthcare challenges. However, opportunities for specialized graduate education in public health were limited in Palestine, and international programs seemed financially out of reach.

The Palestinian Student Fund changed everything for me. Their scholarship program not only covered my tuition and living expenses at Ankara University but also provided language support to help me adapt to studying in Turkish. The transition was challenging, but the foundation's support network made it manageable.

During my master's program, I focused my research on healthcare access in conflict zones, drawing from both academic knowledge and my personal experiences. My professors were supportive and encouraged me to publish my findings, which led to presentations at several international health policy conferences.

One of the most valuable aspects of the PSF program was the professional development opportunities. Through their network, I secured an internship with the World Health Organization's regional office, which gave me practical experience in international health policy and program implementation.

After graduating in 2021, I joined a healthcare NGO that operates across the Middle East, where I now help design and implement community health programs for vulnerable populations. The skills and perspectives I gained through my education allow me to contribute meaningfully to improving healthcare access for those who need it most.

My story is just one example of how educational investment can transform not just individual lives but entire communities. The Palestinian Student Fund didn't just help me achieve my academic goals – they enabled me to become an agent of change in a field that desperately needs innovative solutions.