4 answers
Archived
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Can I possibly make it to university, I am committed to my education but, I dont have any opportunities?
i dont have any opportunitues hpw can i get one or any? I want to further study but I dont have certificate accomplishments to prove just experience but how can I show universities my work ethis and committente if I cant go to them. I want to get a scholarship or eveb I agree with going for a student loan. However the problem is that I cant do education in the county I am in because I want to study where they actually care for the education system and students. I want to get a visa to a country but which country will give students free student visas or any programs that can give you humanitarian visa, i am able to work and volunteer. I am a hardworkng person and stay on task. I have not been free my life always following orders of my parents and honestly I knowthey mean the best for me, but following them has lead me no where and I want to finish my education and achieve my goals. I am 25 and I used to be in university but I dont have any certification because my family was threatened and we run away. I lost my certification of university unable to take it from them. As a girl I also don't have much of any will. I really just want an education to pursue. I have full commitment and want nothing but an opportunity. But the question is how can i get it. It feels as though universities are all after whobever pays better. I have no money, nothing, and no body because my family is broke and they are waiting for an NGO for help and possibly are but I want to open my path. I want to continue my education. It has been over 4 years I haven't been able to study. My heart and mind rushed to be in an institute to study, go research, to make friends for once, to be able to feel how its like to lielve a normal life. I have no issue with making money I have experience in the work life. I have done a little teaching, marketing and am really good with a lot of things especially kids. I would like to possibly pursue a medical field that way I can easily pay my depts on time if I am to be given an opportunity. Please I really want an opening. No one can be trusted everyone lies. No. body helps because they also don't trust but its not to be. blamed. My country people jave made it impossible for those of us who actually want to educate to educate. And now I am stuck and I have nothing to do. I am also insecure right now judt surviving in a room. I want to run and be free. How? How can I find someone or somewhere whonwill help me in a short amount of time. Because I have been hurt, i have been traumatized and seen trauma done to me. I have nothing but my spirit wanting to educate and help others. So please if there is any possible way do help me, guide me what to do.
Also i had like to said i have a case with my family under UNHCR but they have not helped us over the years now. We have been waiting but no one is helping. Our case has send to a resettlement country but no one is responding i dont know what to do. The name of the country was told but no other info yet no one from the embassy contacted us and unhcr is on hold bevause of the crisis going on in pakistan. Please anyone with any kind of help of guidance can give me please give me. It seems everything even humanitarian help is running on money because some people have paid and got helped out but I have no one just a mom and siblings. What can i do? Please i just want an opportunity to my education. After seeing how responsive and amazing everyone resoonds i just wabted to share to know if i also could be helped. Thank you or taking the tine to read this.
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4 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Hanna,
First off—wow. Your strength and determination shine through every word you’ve written, and let me tell you, that kind of fire? It’s rare and powerful. You’ve already made it through so much, and the fact that you’re still standing, still fighting for your education—girl, you’ve got the heart of a warrior. And trust me, that counts for more than you know.
I hear you loud and clear. You want an education. You want to build a future. And it feels like every door you knock on is locked. But guess what? There are ways—real, practical ways—to start moving toward your dreams. So, let’s talk options, because you deserve a shot like every one else. Hope this helps too.
1. Online Education: Your Sneaky Power Move
Right now, while you’re navigating the chaos around you, online education could be your secret weapon. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn offer university-level courses from places like Harvard and Yale. Many of these are free or super affordable, and you can even earn certificates to showcase your skills. This isn’t just about learning—it’s about building proof of your commitment. Imagine attaching a certificate from a top university to your future applications—power move, right?
2. Scholarships Built for Fighters Like You
There are actually scholarships designed specifically for people in tough situations. Look into organizations like:
World University Service of Canada (WUSC) – They offer education programs for refugees and those affected by conflict.
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) – Germany’s got a ton of scholarships for international students, including those facing hardship.
UNHCR's DAFI Program – This supports refugee students in higher education.
Scholars at Risk – Focused on protecting and supporting students in crisis zones.
You’ve got grit—these programs exist for people like you.
3. Countries That Actually Care About Education
Certain countries are more open to helping students from difficult backgrounds. Look at options in Germany (tuition is basically free for public universities), Canada (lots of refugee and humanitarian pathways), and Norway (they also offer free education for many programs). Each has scholarships or student visas—yes, it’s paperwork, but girl, you’re worth the hustle.
4. Reach Out—People WANT to Help
I know it feels like no one’s listening, but there are advocates who care. Start by contacting local UNHCR offices, and don’t stop following up. Persistence gets attention. Also, reach out to universities directly—share your story. You’d be surprised how many admissions officers are moved by someone with passion and purpose.
5. Show the World What You’ve Got
Document everything. Your work experience? Write it down. Your volunteer efforts? Write it down. If you’ve ever taught, helped, or led something—it counts. Your story isn’t just about hardship—it’s about how you keep rising despite it.
Listen, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it—it’s a long road. But you’ve already proven you’re not afraid of the hard stuff. Every email you send, every application you fill out, it’s another step closer. You’re building your future brick by brick, and one day you’re gonna look back and see just how far you came.
And until then? You keep going. You keep reaching. Because someone, somewhere, is going to see the fire in you—and when they do, everything changes.
I’m rooting for you, Hanna. Always.
With so much love and belief in you,
A Friend Who Knows You Can Do This
Anything else you need or have questions remmeber I’m all ears, or words! 🤔😉
First off—wow. Your strength and determination shine through every word you’ve written, and let me tell you, that kind of fire? It’s rare and powerful. You’ve already made it through so much, and the fact that you’re still standing, still fighting for your education—girl, you’ve got the heart of a warrior. And trust me, that counts for more than you know.
I hear you loud and clear. You want an education. You want to build a future. And it feels like every door you knock on is locked. But guess what? There are ways—real, practical ways—to start moving toward your dreams. So, let’s talk options, because you deserve a shot like every one else. Hope this helps too.
1. Online Education: Your Sneaky Power Move
Right now, while you’re navigating the chaos around you, online education could be your secret weapon. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn offer university-level courses from places like Harvard and Yale. Many of these are free or super affordable, and you can even earn certificates to showcase your skills. This isn’t just about learning—it’s about building proof of your commitment. Imagine attaching a certificate from a top university to your future applications—power move, right?
2. Scholarships Built for Fighters Like You
There are actually scholarships designed specifically for people in tough situations. Look into organizations like:
World University Service of Canada (WUSC) – They offer education programs for refugees and those affected by conflict.
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) – Germany’s got a ton of scholarships for international students, including those facing hardship.
UNHCR's DAFI Program – This supports refugee students in higher education.
Scholars at Risk – Focused on protecting and supporting students in crisis zones.
You’ve got grit—these programs exist for people like you.
3. Countries That Actually Care About Education
Certain countries are more open to helping students from difficult backgrounds. Look at options in Germany (tuition is basically free for public universities), Canada (lots of refugee and humanitarian pathways), and Norway (they also offer free education for many programs). Each has scholarships or student visas—yes, it’s paperwork, but girl, you’re worth the hustle.
4. Reach Out—People WANT to Help
I know it feels like no one’s listening, but there are advocates who care. Start by contacting local UNHCR offices, and don’t stop following up. Persistence gets attention. Also, reach out to universities directly—share your story. You’d be surprised how many admissions officers are moved by someone with passion and purpose.
5. Show the World What You’ve Got
Document everything. Your work experience? Write it down. Your volunteer efforts? Write it down. If you’ve ever taught, helped, or led something—it counts. Your story isn’t just about hardship—it’s about how you keep rising despite it.
Listen, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it—it’s a long road. But you’ve already proven you’re not afraid of the hard stuff. Every email you send, every application you fill out, it’s another step closer. You’re building your future brick by brick, and one day you’re gonna look back and see just how far you came.
And until then? You keep going. You keep reaching. Because someone, somewhere, is going to see the fire in you—and when they do, everything changes.
I’m rooting for you, Hanna. Always.
With so much love and belief in you,
A Friend Who Knows You Can Do This
Anything else you need or have questions remmeber I’m all ears, or words! 🤔😉
Your advice was so helpful!
Mina
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Archived
Aww, glad I could help, Mina! You’ve got this! 💖✨
Dr H
Truly appreciate your time you took answering me so well. Just I have contacted dunhcr many times but no body is helping out or responding. I am begging to lose hope and spirit. I don't know much longer if I can take the pain.
Archived
Hey we are here for you Hanna Stay strong
Mina
Hanna, I hear you. It’s tough when you're doing everything you can, and it feels like no one's listening. But trust me, they do care—it’s just that their system is overloaded, and things take time. It’s frustrating, I know. But you’re not alone in this! Keep reaching out, keep pushing your case forward, and don’t let the silence make you lose hope. Mina’s right—you’ve got people who care about you here, and we’re rooting for you. Stay strong, keep safe, and keep holding on. Things will move forward, even if it feels slow.💙
Dr H
One more thing, Hanna, I know waiting feels unbearable, but persistence is key. Try reaching out to local NGOs or legal aid organizations that work with refugees—they might have direct contacts at UNHCR or know alternative ways to speed things up. Also, if possible, document everything—dates of calls, emails sent, and any responses you get. Sometimes, having a clear record helps push your case forward. And please, lean on your support system, even if it’s just online—you're not alone in this. Stay strong! And be careful of whom you share your info with ensure it is safe and check before it all.
Dr H
Dr. H, your advice is truly invaluable—thank you for sharing such thoughtful and practical steps. Persistence and keeping records are so important, and your words bring a lot of hope. And Mina, my friend, your kindness and support mean everything. You have such a big heart! ❤️ Sending love hugs to you friend!
Archived
Aww Hanna, that's a sweet message, keep shining ✨
Dr H
Thank you dr. You too stay bright sir.
Archived
Sending more love hugs to you and Dr H and G for your guys support
Mina
Emily Garcia
Graphic Designer
35
Answers
Apple Valley, California
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hello Hanna,
I am so sorry to hear about everything you've been through, and I can see your determination and strength through your words. You clearly have an incredible work ethic and resilience. You deserve the opportunity to further your education and achieving your goals, and I'm glad that you have reached out to us for further guidance.
Since you are passionate about education and want to pursue a degree, scholarships could be a viable option to help with funding your education. Many universities, particularly in Canada, Germany, the UK and US, offer scholarships for students who are from undeserved backgrounds. Some of them are also specifically for those in difficult situations like yours, including those affected by conflict or humanitarian crises. It's worth reaching out to universities or looking into scholarships offered by organizations like World University Service of Canada (WUSC), who also support people in challenging situations.
There are many reputable universities offering online programs, which may also be more affordable. Online education can allow you to study from home without needing a visa or living in another country, which might be a good first step. Some institutions even offer free courses or low-cost courses with an option of receiving a certificate. Websites like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn can provide you access to many programs from top universities. Open universities or platforms like Khan Academy can also be useful to build a foundation or improving your qualifications in areas like healthcare or teaching if you are aiming for that career path.
In terms of getting a visa to study abroad, you might want to explore visa programs that are specifically designed for people in vulnerable situations. Canada, for example, has a refugee resettlement program that offers international students from various backgrounds opportunities to study with permits if they meet specific requirements. Germany also offers opportunities to apply for scholarships or work-study programs like DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) being a great place to start.
I hope this helps point you in the right direction as best as I am able to help you provide. I know this journey is daunting for you in many ways. But you are already having the right mindset to succeed for yourself. You clearly have the determination to make it through your willingness of moving forward- even when things seem impossible. It shows the kind the mindset that leads to greater things, and I believe you'll find your way. It's tough when it feels like the world is against you but remember that your story matters. You have so much to offer the world, and there are people out there who will recognize your dedication. Keep that spirit alive-it's what will continue to push you through the tough days.
Keeping looking for those opportunities as best as you possibly can, and keep applying and reaching out. Every email you send, every application you submit, brings you one step closer to the life you want to live. If there is anything more I can do tohelp guide you, I and many others will continue to help you out as much as possible. You're on the right path.
Best Regards,
Emily Garcia
I am so sorry to hear about everything you've been through, and I can see your determination and strength through your words. You clearly have an incredible work ethic and resilience. You deserve the opportunity to further your education and achieving your goals, and I'm glad that you have reached out to us for further guidance.
Since you are passionate about education and want to pursue a degree, scholarships could be a viable option to help with funding your education. Many universities, particularly in Canada, Germany, the UK and US, offer scholarships for students who are from undeserved backgrounds. Some of them are also specifically for those in difficult situations like yours, including those affected by conflict or humanitarian crises. It's worth reaching out to universities or looking into scholarships offered by organizations like World University Service of Canada (WUSC), who also support people in challenging situations.
There are many reputable universities offering online programs, which may also be more affordable. Online education can allow you to study from home without needing a visa or living in another country, which might be a good first step. Some institutions even offer free courses or low-cost courses with an option of receiving a certificate. Websites like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn can provide you access to many programs from top universities. Open universities or platforms like Khan Academy can also be useful to build a foundation or improving your qualifications in areas like healthcare or teaching if you are aiming for that career path.
In terms of getting a visa to study abroad, you might want to explore visa programs that are specifically designed for people in vulnerable situations. Canada, for example, has a refugee resettlement program that offers international students from various backgrounds opportunities to study with permits if they meet specific requirements. Germany also offers opportunities to apply for scholarships or work-study programs like DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) being a great place to start.
I hope this helps point you in the right direction as best as I am able to help you provide. I know this journey is daunting for you in many ways. But you are already having the right mindset to succeed for yourself. You clearly have the determination to make it through your willingness of moving forward- even when things seem impossible. It shows the kind the mindset that leads to greater things, and I believe you'll find your way. It's tough when it feels like the world is against you but remember that your story matters. You have so much to offer the world, and there are people out there who will recognize your dedication. Keep that spirit alive-it's what will continue to push you through the tough days.
Keeping looking for those opportunities as best as you possibly can, and keep applying and reaching out. Every email you send, every application you submit, brings you one step closer to the life you want to live. If there is anything more I can do tohelp guide you, I and many others will continue to help you out as much as possible. You're on the right path.
Best Regards,
Emily Garcia
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Archived
Of course, Hanna! Don't hesitate to reach out to me and others if you need anything :)
Emily Garcia
I will surely thanks so much
Archived
Céline Riard
Interior designer
13
Answers
Framingham, Massachusetts
Updated
Céline’s Answer
Hey Hanna. Looks like you got your share of hard time already at such a young age. Your profile says you are in California, but if you are not in the US already, I am not sure I know what to do. If you are in the USA, I have to agree with you that the undergraduate system is completely messed up: expensive even in public schools in low cost states. Navigating the scholarship system is time-consuming and may lead to a dead-end. But some states have programs in place to help people get an education, like completely free tuition for an associate degree (two year program) at community colleges. I know very successful professionals who had zero support from their family and got themselves through an associate degree working full time and got good jobs after. Have you checked the California promise program? It may have all the answers you need. It is not easy but it can work. https://www.calstate.edu/apply/freshman/getting_into_the_csu/pages/the-california-promise-program.aspx.
You may not meet all the eligibility requirements, but if you find a person who cares at a community college, and make them like you by showing determination and understanding and patience, they may become your best ally and help you meet the eligibility criteria or even give you special dispensations. It looks like you need somebody who is in your corner and has your back. People will be more willing to help you if you show them a positive front: so put your smiling mask on, show them their time won't be wasted. We are all born with unequal opportunities. Your cry for help shows that you are not ready to give up and it makes you such a valuable person. Don't give up!
You may not meet all the eligibility requirements, but if you find a person who cares at a community college, and make them like you by showing determination and understanding and patience, they may become your best ally and help you meet the eligibility criteria or even give you special dispensations. It looks like you need somebody who is in your corner and has your back. People will be more willing to help you if you show them a positive front: so put your smiling mask on, show them their time won't be wasted. We are all born with unequal opportunities. Your cry for help shows that you are not ready to give up and it makes you such a valuable person. Don't give up!
Thank you so much 💓 Celine for your answer and time. I am not willing to give up ever because I already did try but I kinda want to taste the greatness and wonders of the world, I may not be possible to find opportunities easily but I have always kept my smile and I will keep trying because its what I want and if I don't do it then who will. And yes I never have had a friend in reality my friends have always been online gamers or just social media but now I don't even have that anymore. I am unfortunately not in the US, there is a issue uploading my destination but I think it will show soon. I still thank you very much for your time.
Archived
I just want to know if there is a way to get to someone or even an institute that will offer me an opportunity, I can prove my commitment and the fact that I can repay everything after a whil. But I can't do it face to face because I am in pakistan so I don't know how can I do it. Everything is Realy hard but I know if I just keep trying I might find somebody so I will keep trying. I am willing to show that determination! Thank you for your kind words! 💙
Archived
Hanna, your determination is truly inspiring! Keep pushing forward—opportunities may take time, but your persistence will open doors. Stay strong, keep reaching out, and never stop believing in yourself!
And, Keep reaching out, networking online, and looking for scholarship or remote opportunities. Someone will see your drive—just don’t stop knocking on doors.
Dr H
You are really amazing Dr. h I cannot thank you enough, despite being here for career advice you give me so much motivation and support. You have given me so much strength to myself and I am now so much more confident in myself because of you. Thank you so much Dr.
Archived
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1094
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Hanna,
I am so sorry you have to deal with this at a young age. But your drive and tenacity is admirable. There MUST be a solution. Don't give up!
There are a lot of programs aimed at refugees and asylum seekers. It won't be easy, but there are opportunities.
You find below a couple of links to scholarships and refugee programs. Have a look which ones are a good fit and reach out even if just for information.
Another idea would be to contact universities and departments directly. Maybe your old university has a partner university. Or maybe a professor has collaborators somewhere. If not, try to narrow it down to a few universities you would like to attend and make contact directly. They can point you to funding sources.
I hope this helps a bit! I am rooting for you!
KP
https://services.unhcr.org/opportunities/
https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/daad-funding-programmes/hilde-domin-programme/
https://wissenschaft.hessen.de/studieren/international-students/hessenfonds-fuer-fluechtlinge/hessenfonds-for-refugees
https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?detail=10000384
https://www.freiheit.org/scholarships-refugees-0
https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:9164fd93-afb1-4c89-85a0-b11813698f55
https://www.fh-swf.de/en/studieninteressierte/studienvorbereitung/finanzielles/bafoeg/integration_von_gefluechteten__nrwege_ins_studium_/integration_von_gefluechteten__nrwege_ins_studium_1.php
https://services.unhcr.org/opportunities/education-opportunities/student-refugee-program-srp
https://www.uni-marburg.de/en/international/from-abroad/refugees/scholarships
https://www.goethe-university-frankfurt.de/135995929/Student_Refugee_Advisory_Service
https://www.h-brs.de/en/scholarships-students-refugee-status
https://www.mpowerfinancing.com/scholarships/refugee-scholarship
https://srp.wusc.ca/
https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/scholarships/
https://www.skillpath.org.au/blog/refugee-student-settlement-pilot-launched
https://internationalscholarships.ca/top-10-refugee-scholarships-2017-2018/
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/advice/university-scholarships-available-refugee-students
https://malala.org/
https://www.edupass.org/paying-for-college/scholarships/databases/
https://scholarshiproar.com/fully-funded-undergraduate-scholarships-in-usa/?amp
https://www.scholars4dev.com/category/country/usa-scholarships/
https://oxpakprogramme.org/
I am so sorry you have to deal with this at a young age. But your drive and tenacity is admirable. There MUST be a solution. Don't give up!
There are a lot of programs aimed at refugees and asylum seekers. It won't be easy, but there are opportunities.
You find below a couple of links to scholarships and refugee programs. Have a look which ones are a good fit and reach out even if just for information.
Another idea would be to contact universities and departments directly. Maybe your old university has a partner university. Or maybe a professor has collaborators somewhere. If not, try to narrow it down to a few universities you would like to attend and make contact directly. They can point you to funding sources.
I hope this helps a bit! I am rooting for you!
KP
https://services.unhcr.org/opportunities/
https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/daad-funding-programmes/hilde-domin-programme/
https://wissenschaft.hessen.de/studieren/international-students/hessenfonds-fuer-fluechtlinge/hessenfonds-for-refugees
https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?detail=10000384
https://www.freiheit.org/scholarships-refugees-0
https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:9164fd93-afb1-4c89-85a0-b11813698f55
https://www.fh-swf.de/en/studieninteressierte/studienvorbereitung/finanzielles/bafoeg/integration_von_gefluechteten__nrwege_ins_studium_/integration_von_gefluechteten__nrwege_ins_studium_1.php
https://services.unhcr.org/opportunities/education-opportunities/student-refugee-program-srp
https://www.uni-marburg.de/en/international/from-abroad/refugees/scholarships
https://www.goethe-university-frankfurt.de/135995929/Student_Refugee_Advisory_Service
https://www.h-brs.de/en/scholarships-students-refugee-status
https://www.mpowerfinancing.com/scholarships/refugee-scholarship
https://srp.wusc.ca/
https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/scholarships/
https://www.skillpath.org.au/blog/refugee-student-settlement-pilot-launched
https://internationalscholarships.ca/top-10-refugee-scholarships-2017-2018/
https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/advice/university-scholarships-available-refugee-students
https://malala.org/
https://www.edupass.org/paying-for-college/scholarships/databases/
https://scholarshiproar.com/fully-funded-undergraduate-scholarships-in-usa/?amp
https://www.scholars4dev.com/category/country/usa-scholarships/
https://oxpakprogramme.org/