From Village to Campus: How One Scholarship Changed a Life in Ghana
“I didn’t think I’d make it past high school. Today, I walk the halls of a university.”
— Abigail N., Maryville Scholar
In the quiet farming village of Agogo, nestled in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, lived a bright and determined young girl named Abigail. Despite excelling in school and earning top marks in her Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), her dreams of continuing her education seemed destined to end after high school.
Abigail was the eldest of five children. Her father, a subsistence farmer, and her mother, a trader, could barely afford daily meals—let alone college tuition. Though gifted with a sharp mind and a heart full of ambition, Abigail was preparing to stay home while her classmates moved on.
“I saw my future shrinking. It felt unfair because I knew I had what it takes.”
A Chance Encounter with The Maryville Foundation
That’s when Abigail’s pastor introduced her to The Maryville Foundation, a nonprofit committed to supporting brilliant low-income students across Ghana. With just days left before university application deadlines, she was encouraged to apply for the foundation’s full scholarship and mentorship program.
She submitted her application—complete with transcripts, a moving personal essay, and glowing recommendation letters—and waited with cautious hope.
Three weeks later, her life changed.
From Acceptance to Impact
Abigail was awarded a full scholarship through the foundation’s “Adopt-a-Soul” program. Her fees were paid, textbooks provided, and most importantly, she was matched with a mentor — a young woman named Lydia, who had once been a Maryville scholar herself.
Now in her third year at the University of Cape Coast, Abigail is studying Nursing, with dreams of serving in rural clinics and eventually opening a health outreach center in her hometown.
“The scholarship didn’t just cover my school bills. It restored my belief in myself.”
Beyond Money — The Power of Mentorship
One unique part of the Maryville Foundation’s approach is holistic support. Abigail’s mentor checks in weekly, helping her navigate academic challenges, emotional struggles, and even spiritual questions.
“Sometimes I wanted to quit. But Lydia reminded me I wasn’t alone. That made all the difference.”
Paying It Forward
Today, Abigail volunteers with the foundation during breaks, helping younger applicants through the same process she once walked. Her goal? To sponsor another student one day, just as someone sponsored her.
“I want to be the reason another girl doesn’t give up.”
How You Can Help
Abigail’s story is not unique — but it could easily have ended differently. There are hundreds of students like her waiting for a chance.
You can:
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🎓 Sponsor a student’s education
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🎒 Donate school supplies
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🧑🏫 Volunteer as a mentor
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💝 Give monthly to sustain the mission
