The misconception that studying abroad is exclusively for the affluent is debunked by the inspiring journey of Manu Chauhan, a 20-year-old hailing from Akrabad village in Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh district. Chauhan’s pursuit of higher education at Stanford University stands as a testament to the fact that meritorious students from economically challenged backgrounds can indeed secure a seat at prestigious institutions, aided by scholarships.
Despite financial constraints, Chauhan embarked on a path to success early on, commencing his preparation for applications to US universities, including Stanford, during his 11th grade. A standout performance in the SAT exam, where he achieved a score of 1470 out of 1600, further solidified his potential.
Chauhan’s journey began with a significant milestone at the age of 11 when he secured admission to VidyaGyan School through a competitive entrance examination. The school, committed to providing free education to students from low-income families, paved the way for Chauhan’s educational journey.
In an interview with News18, Chauhan highlighted the critical role scholarships played in his pursuit of education. He acknowledged that the financial burden would have made quality education inaccessible without the support of scholarships.
Chauhan’s story underscores that quality education from esteemed global institutions is an attainable goal for students from all economic backgrounds. He passionately encouraged peers from modest and middle-class families to consider studying abroad as a viable option. He remarked, “The world is there to help, but only if you want it badly enough. There is financial aid and other scholarships available everywhere.”
The scholarship that facilitated Chauhan’s journey is a component of Stanford University’s financial aid offerings designed to assist students with limited financial means. Under this scheme, prospective students are evaluated for the scholarship concurrent with their admission assessment.
Chauhan’s proactive approach to his aspirations began with meticulous preparation that commenced in grade 11. His application process was further supported by College Board’s scholarship, which funded his SAT exam. He attributed his school for aiding in the application process, acknowledging the collective effort that assists students without substantial financial resources yet brimming with determination.
Manu Chauhan’s success story at Stanford serves as a beacon of inspiration, dismantling the notion that studying abroad is reserved for the privileged. His journey showcases that dedication, determination, and access to scholarships can propel deserving individuals to academic achievement on the global stage.
