“Being a Chime® Scholar showed me that people believe in my potential.”
Daisy is a computer science student at UC Berkeley and a community college transfer student. After losing her small business during the pandemic, Daisy was inspired to return to school with a clear goal: to contribute meaningfully to her new community and set a strong example for her two children. This sense of purpose drove her decision to continue her educational journey.
Returning to School and Overcoming Barriers
Starting her education in a new country brought many challenges, adjusting to a new culture, navigating financial constraints, balancing her life as a mother, and learning English. Daisy struggled during her first semester, often finding it difficult to follow lectures and participate in discussions. Through hard work and persistence, she practiced her English skills, “I tried my best every day, joining discussions and studying hard, and finally, I overcame it,” she shares.
The Impact of the Chime Scholarship
The Chime Scholarship has been a transformative support for Daisy, providing crucial financial relief and allowing her to focus fully on her studies. Before receiving the scholarship, Daisy was balancing two part-time jobs while managing a household as a single mother, with student loan debt continuing to grow. The scholarship lifted some of this burden, making it possible for her to reduce work hours and concentrate on her education. “This support has helped me stay on track with my studies,” she reflects, “and reminds me that I have a community rooting for my success.”
Looking Ahead: A Future in Engineering
Daisy was drawn to engineering and data science because of her curiosity and fascination with cutting-edge technology. She sees computer science as a powerful field that allows her to push boundaries and explore innovative solutions. Her goal is to not only gain expertise but to drive impactful change in technology, a field that continues to inspire her pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. She’s also determined to give back to the community, hoping to mentor other first-generation, low-income students and help them navigate their educational journeys.
Daisy is a powerful example of how courage and determination can pave the way to success, even in the face of adversity.