Aakansha's Story

I and my family migrated to Canada two years ago from India. This was not an easy transition. We had to adjust in a different culture, different way of living and absolutely different environment (weather). On the top of this, the recession period made the condition worse as my parents could not find suitable jobs. Unstable financial condition and the worry about the expenses on my post secondary education made my parents think to move back to India, but I insisted on staying here. I always tried to secure good marks in school and to manage time for work and volunteering. My teachers helped me a lot throughout my journey. They were always there to guide, encourage and inspire me whenever I faced any problem. Any tribute to them will be insufficient compared to the services they rendered to me.

Eventually, the graduation day came. High school graduation is a special occasion in everyone’s life and same goes true for me. Actually it was the happiest and a “Red Letter Day” of my life till now. During the graduation ceremony of my school (Sister High School) awards after awards were given to students and I was cursing myself for not applying for those scholarships. Suddenly, I heard my name being called out and I came to know that I had won a really big scholarship. My whole tuition fees and cost of books for my first degree would be covered by The Tallman Foundation. This was unbelievable for me. I had been in the grip of stress for so many days about my university fees and God blessed me with such a moment which removed all my and my parents’ worries. I had heard that God sends his men to help his mankind and I personally experienced this at that moment. I was in the ocean of diverse feelings- of happiness, thankfulness, gratitude, inspiration and astonishment. When I saw my mom, tears of joy were rolling down her cheeks. In this way, 30th June 2009 became a special day of my life.

Further down the road, I intend to pursue a career in medicine and serve the society. I want to thank The Tallman Foundation for recognizing the efforts of an immigrant like me and putting their trust on me. I will try my best to reach their expectations and would like to contribute to the chain of generosity by extending some financial aid to deserving students. Again, my heartiest thanks to The Tallman Foundation.