AMERIC | A remarkable 22-year-old lady named Abena Marfo has inspired many after successfully graduating with three bachelor’s degrees from Southern Methodist University (SMU), Texas,United States, despite working five jobs to fund her education.
Her story is one of resilience, determination, and strong will with a purpose to achieve a dream of getting educated;.
Abena's Story and How She Did It
Abena’s story begins with her mother, who migrated from Ghana to the United States in search of a better life. As a single parent raising two daughters while juggling preschool jobs, she was unable to attend college.
Her sacrifices deeply shaped Abena’s determination to rewrite her family story. Growing up, Abena carried the weight of her mother’s unfulfilled dreams and the desire to become the first in her family to earn a college degree.
When Abena gained admission into SMU, the financial pressure on her family was overwhelming, and it was on the verge of affecting her education.
EXPLORE SCHOLARSHIPS
To ease the burden, she took on five different roles, all while maintaining a full academic load. Abena worked as a Research Assistant for a History Professor, a Tech Lab Assistant, a Peer Counselor, a Resident Assistant, and a University Student Ambassador.
“There was never a moment where I had the privilege of just being a student,” she recalled. Her earnings not only covered her school expenses but also allowed her to support her mother when necessary.
Despite the demanding workload, Abena excelled academically and graduated with three bachelor’s degrees in Sociology, Health and Society, and Human Rights.
Her academic journey was not just about earning degrees; it was about using education as a tool for change.
Along the way, she noticed a gap in support for first-generation students. In response, she co-founded the First-Generation Association, creating a space for students like her to find community and resources.
“We are our parents’ retirement fund. We carry the pressure of doing well because other people are depending on us,” she said.
After completing her studies at SMU, Abena continued her academic journey at Emory University in Atlanta, graduating in 2024. While she sometimes battles with the guilt of achieving dreams her mother couldn’t, Abena remains proud of her progress.
“I don’t know where I found the energy,” she admitted. “I was just pushing myself so hard. I kept my eyes on the bigger picture.”
Follow our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter: @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region