Iffat Alam

As an M State student in the Practical Nursing program, I worked hard to stay on track academically while balancing financial responsibilities such as rent, utilities, medical bills, and the upcoming costs of my NCLEX exam and OPT licensure.

I faced an unexpected and distressing situation when my car was vandalized beyond repair. The experience felt overwhelming and discouraging. I never imagined something like this would happen to me. It came at a moment when I was already stretched financially, and I seriously considering withdrawing from the term. 

I felt alone, with little to no support from family and no way to travel to campus or to the clinical rotations I needed to graduate. It is a humbling experience reaching out to ask for rides and explaining what happened to my car and that I have no money to fix the issue. 

A moment of hope came when I was awarded a Promise grant through the M State Foundation. This generous support lifted a significant burden from my shoulders and allowed me to refocus on what matters most—my education and my future as a nurse. More than just financial assistance, the grant instilled hope and reminded me that I am not alone and that M State is an institution that truly cares. It renewed my determination to keep moving forward and pursuing my goals.

With the help of this support, I was able to repair my vehicle so I could drive it again. I will successfully graduate with my degree in Practical Nursing, be able to take my licensure exams, and start working as an LPN at Sanford Hospital of Fargo.