Hasnain’s new life

Hasnain’s Achieving Potential (Humanitarian) Scholarship has given him a chance to build a new life in Australia and give back to the community through healthcare.

Having fled persecution from the Taliban, Hasnain and his family left Western Pakistan and arrived in Australia with little more than a new found sense of safety.

Despite his clear academic talent, higher education seemed like an unattainable goal for Hasnain — until our alumni and donors helped fund his Achieving Potential (Humanitarian) Scholarship.

Achieving Potential (Humanitarian) Scholarship recipient, Hasnain.

Here’s Hasnain’s story in his own words.

“Coming to Australia as an asylum seeker meant a new life for me, but it came with its own set of challenges.

“The Australian education system classified me as an international student, meaning I wouldn’t qualify for HECS (Higher Education Contribution Scheme) and would need to pay for my education and living expenses upfront.

“Starting over in a new country and rebuilding our lives from scratch, made it impossible to afford education… it simply wasn’t an option. This scholarship allowed me to follow my passions, build a future for myself and give my family the life they deserve in Australia.

“Both of my parents are incredibly hard working and have managed to start from scratch, they both work as security guards and provide us with a great life. 

“However, they would never have been able to afford sending me to university, and it's because of this scholarship that I’m here today.

Hasnain and his mum in Australia.

“I’ve always wanted to work in healthcare because of the profound impact it had on my father, allowing him to live a more independent and fulfilling life. That's why I chose to study anatomy and physiology.

“Currently I’m shadowing as a cardiac physiologist at the Victorian Heart Hospital and working as a ward clerk there. I’m hoping to secure a position as a Grade One Cardiac Physiologist soon.

“Once again, the incredible generosity of the Monash alumni and donor community is the only reason I’m where I am today. It’s the reason I can pursue my passion, it’s the reason I’m able to work in healthcare, and it’s the reason I’ve met so many wonderful friends here in Australia.

“Thank you, for everything you’ve done for me.”