What is the DGHUK Sponsor a Child scheme?Helping children study at Dr Graham’s Homes is the heart of what we do as a charity - here’s how it worksThe autumn term is an exciting time for many of our sponsored young people. While most are continuing their school year at Dr Graham’s Homes, others are now facing a bigger adventure. Equipped with the results of their recent Indian School Certificate exams (ISCs), they have left DGH to pursue jobs and tertiary education courses across India and beyond.
DGHUK is committed to helping our young people make that move as successful as possible, so we take a special interest in where they go next and how they’re getting on. With that in mind, we spoke to two recent graduates – Tracy and Kelly – to find out more about their new lives beyond DGH.
Tracy
Studying in Bengaluru (AKA Bangalore)
Where are you now?
I’m currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science Hons (BCA) at Christ University in Bengaluru. The reason I chose this university is because it is the no. 1 college for BCA and I wanted to get the best education I could, in order to achieve certain goals in my life.
How did you feel about making the move?
Just the thought of living in a huge city alone brought shivers down my spine at the beginning! But now that I’m here, it does not seem that bad. I was honestly looking forward to this independent life, although there’s no doubt I was a little scared too. At the same time, I was super excited to explore this new phase of life.
What do you make of your new home?
The people out here are diverse – not just from India but from other countries too. The knowledge we are able to gain, and the skills of communication, are unique here. I’m glad I chose to come and explore this life. I can never be more thankful to the DGHUK committee for the opportunity I received. If not for them I would not be here living a life full of surprises today!
Kelly
Studying for a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree at Bhawanipur College, Kolkata
How did it feel to leave the Homes?
The last few days of one’s school life are always the most memorable ones with our hearts filled with joy, excitement, sadness and nervousness all at the same time. Similarly, I too was overjoyed to complete my school, but at the same time I was deeply saddened to leave, since I had spent 13 wonderful years in this institution and had created a family with my friends and teachers. As much as I was going to miss the days spent in Dr Graham's Homes, I was also really excited and nervous at the same time to start a fresh new life at college.
How are you getting on since your graduation?
I have already started my college here and made a few friends. Everything is different, but I am trying to adjust, and once I do, I am sure I am going to love this place and create my own little family here as well. I will continue to work hard and do everything I can to make my family and Dr Graham’s Homes proud. Leaving everything behind and starting fresh was difficult, but through the constant love and support of the DGHUK committee, I have been able to settle down comfortably in Kolkata.
A big congratulations from all here at DGHUK to our recent ISC graduates. We wish you all well for the next stage of your careers and look forward to hearing how you’re getting on!
To find out more about how you can support a DGH young person through tertiary education, please see our Extended Sponsorship programme page. Or drop the Sponsorship Secretaries an email. They will be delighted to hear from you.
What is the DGHUK Sponsor a Child scheme?Helping children study at Dr Graham’s Homes is the heart of what we do as a charity - here’s how it works
