I am incredibly thankful for the life-changing support I received from the Scholar Support Programme by YES-J Centre under the guidance of Fr. Balakumar SJ. As a student of B.Sc. Visual Communication at Andhra Loyola College, I come from a broken family and faced financial struggles that threatened my education.
The financial aid I received through YES-J relieved much of that burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and pursue my dreams without constant worry. Beyond financial support, the programme also helped shape me into a better person. Fr. Balakumar's mentorship encouraged me to develop not just academically, but personally. I gained essential communication skills that boosted my confidence and helped me become a more effective, compassionate individual.
Without the Scholar Support Program, I might have had to drop out of college and放弃 my dreams of pursuing a career in media. The consistent support and encouragement I received made me realize that my circumstances didn't define my potential. YES-J believed in me when I didn't believe in myself.
The program didn't just provide financial assistance; it provided hope. The mentorship component was particularly valuable, as it helped me navigate not just academic challenges but also personal growth. I learned to see obstacles as opportunities for growth and to approach life with resilience and determination.
Today, as a media professional, I carry the lessons I learned through the Scholar Support Program with me every day. I'm committed to paying forward the support I received by mentoring other young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. YES-J didn't just help me complete my education; it helped me discover my purpose.
To any student facing similar challenges, I want you to know that your circumstances don't determine your future. With the right support and your own determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. YES-J showed me that there are people who believe in the potential of young people, and that belief can be the catalyst for incredible transformation.