‘I am not alone’: Promise grant helps nursing student stay on track to graduation

As a student in M State's Practical Nursing program, Iffat Alam was focused on balancing coursework, clinical experiences and the financial responsibilities that come with pursuing a degree.

But when her vehicle was vandalized beyond repair, Alam suddenly faced an unexpected challenge that threatened her ability to continue her education.

“The experience felt overwhelming and discouraging,” Alam shared in a recent letter to the M State Foundation. “I never imagined something like this would happen to me.”

Already managing expenses such as rent, utilities, medical bills and upcoming licensure-related costs, Alam said the loss of reliable transportation came at a difficult time.

“I was seriously considering having to withdraw from the term,” she wrote. “I felt alone, with little to no support from family and no way to travel to campus and my clinical rotations.”

Then came a source of hope: the M State Foundation's Promise grant. The grant provided financial assistance that allowed Alam to repair her vehicle and remain focused on completing her education.

“More than just financial assistance, this grant instilled hope and reminded me that I am not alone and that M State is an institution that truly cares,” Alam shared.

Alam has also experienced the importance of student support through her work in M State's Campus Cupboard, where she helped connect students with resources to meet basic needs.

There, she saw firsthand “the impact that kindness and compassion can have on someone’s life,” she wrote. “That is exactly what this grant represents. It renewed my determination to keep moving forward and pursuing my goals.”

With the support of the grant, Alam was able to repair her vehicle and complete the Practical Nursing program, taking the next steps toward her career. She expects to begin working soon as an LPN at Sanford Health in Fargo.