For many, going to university is a process in their educational life; for others it’s a dream. Then there are students whose dream becomes reality through determination, hard work, luck and support. Such is the situation of our students at BEAM Foundation who are in the process of writing their GED exams and applying for university admission. Some students have been lucky not only to gain a university place but sponsorship (fantastic), others meanwhile finish writing, and wait for their result before applying to universities. In many cases this is a leap of faith as they do not have the finances to support themselves through university. Below are a couple of requests from two BEAM students. The burning question is how can Rotary and its members help; have you any ideas on how, where, who could they contact for support, guidance and sponsorship?
Letter One
From: Khin Maung Aye
I am Khin Maung Aye, known as NyiZaw. I would like to know that does Rotary Club still provide scholarships for Myanmar student to study in Thailand, Bachelor in Education. I have already received the university admission however I am still trying finding a full scholarship to study. Because I and my family could not afford my further education. Therefore, I would like know to about the scholarship information. Would like to hear from you more.
Thank you very much NyiZaw
Letter Two
I hope you are doing well and nice to know you.
I am a student from BEAM. My name is Myo Hlaing Htwe. My nickname is TG. Now, I am living in Chiang Mai. I want to study at Mae Fah Luang University in Chiang Rai. The rank of the university is second in Thailand.
Now, I am studying to take the GED (General Education Development) exam in Chiang Mai. I will finish my GED exam in July 2020. Luckily, the university accepts with a grade-12 certificate for the new students. Even though I have not finished my GED, I have a grade-12 certificate so I can apply.
I will study for a bachelor's degree in Business and Management major at that university. I do not apply yet, but I will apply to it in next week. On the other hand, I am a little bit worry to apply because if they accepted me, I have no money to go to study at there. However, I really wanted to study, so I will apply it first. I had talked with an alumni student from that university and he will help me to apply at Mae Fah Luang University. Then, he explains to me how much it cost for the first year and when the first class starts.
So, I need money. That is why I need a scholarship or loan can you help me. I have applied for some scholarships and loans such as Zomia, Child's Dream Foundation, and Prospect Burma, unfortunately, I was not successful. Can you help me to find a personal donor as well? If someone wants to donate me for the only first-year study of the university, it's fine. I will apply to those scholarships or loans after my first year of study at university. The total cost for the first-year study is over 100,000 Baht.
Total cost of first-year study Business and Management major at Mae Fah Laung University.
- Tuition Fee = 71500
- Food. = 27000
- Application = 300
- Dormitory = 8000
- Damage Issue = 2000
- Public Facility = 2400
- Health Insurance = 2000
- Health Check = 590
- Bank account & student ID = 200
- Visa = 2500 (3 months)
- Visa Renewal = 1900
- Uniform = 2000
- Electric bill = 800
Total amount = 121,190 Baht
(Note* This is an estimated the basic need minimum amount for one year)
The first class will start on August 24, 2020.
I had done some volunteer work such as teaching to children at the Monastery (2019-2020 in Chiang Mai), Leadership program at FED Foundation (2018-2019 in Mae Sot), and Facilitator at Youth Conference at JUMP Foundation (2019 in Chiang Mai)
Thank you so much for your help. I will do my best at the university.
Myo Hlaing Htwe (TG)
Without doubt these appeals are a true reflection of their mission in getting a university education. I have not seen the final numbers of student who have passed as many will complete the writing of exams in early July. What I have seen so far is exciting; a thrill on their achievement. The next hurdle is a challenge.
So how can you help? Any ideas, contacts, thoughts, advice, and guidance are welcomed. The BEAM Education Foundation are supporting in whatever way they can but the more the merrier, in making dreams come true