After graduating from Dr Graham's Homes, Christina applied for an Extended Sponsorship to help kickstart her dream career in hotel management. This is her story.Cynderella was just a few years old when she first arrived at Dr Graham's Homes. Originally from Kolkata, her mother was struggling to bring up her family alone. But she was desperate to give her daughter an education that she herself had lacked. Thanks to support from DGHUK sponsors, Cynderella was able to live and study at the Homes until she turned 18. We are now supporting her through further studies and into a new career. This is her story…
Cynderella, how did you first come to study at Dr Graham's Homes?
My mother heard about the Homes through her friend, who knew someone connected to DGH because her children were studying there. At the time, she was really struggling. She was trying to provide for me and my brother on her own with very little income. When her friend saw how bad her situation was, she suggested sending me to the Homes.
Why did your mum decide to apply for a DGHUK sponsorship?
She wanted me to have a better chance at life – especially when it came to education, which she hadn’t been able to pursue much herself. When my mum heard there was a way I could go to school, be well cared for, and grow up in a safe and supportive environment, she knew it was the right step. It was a hard decision for her to send me away from the family home. But she did it out of love and hope for my future.
What was it like to arrive at the school for the first time?
I was very young when I started – about three or four years old – so a lot of things were overwhelming at first. I remember holding tightly to my mum’s hand when we first arrived. Everything felt big and unfamiliar. There were so many new faces, and I didn’t understand why I had to stay at first. I remember missing her a lot in those early days. But I also remember the kindness of the Aunties [staff members at the Homes who care for the boarding pupils] and older sisters when I first joined the Lucia King kindergarten. They took really good care of me and made me feel like I belonged.
How did the school staff help you to settle in?
I remember someone gave me a little teddy bear and helped me unpack my bag. It was such a small thing, but it meant a lot to me! Later I was assigned to Birissa, one of the boarding cottages, and then at last to Macgregor [another boarding cottage]. Starting school was exciting and scary at the same time. I didn’t know many words in English yet, and I was nervous about keeping up, but the teachers were patient and gentle. Over time, I came to love learning and I think those early moments really planted the seed for the dreams I’m now chasing.
Did it help to know you had a sponsor who was interested in you and your schooling?
Yes, it helped more than I can even express. Knowing that someone far away in the UK cared about me, believed in my education, and chose to support me was incredibly encouraging. It made me feel seen and valued, especially during difficult times when I felt uncertain about my future. It gave me hope and motivation to keep going. It wasn’t just about the financial help – although that was life-changing – it was also the emotional support. I felt like I had someone cheering me on from across the world.
What was the biggest challenge during your time at DGH?
I’d say the hardest part was dealing with the emotions that came from knowing my background and missing my family, even though DGH became a home to me. But, over time, I found peace and healing, thanks to the support and love I received there. Later it became even harder for me when I had to leave the Homes. I’d been there since I was very young and I got so used to DGH and the people there. I still wish that I could stay there forever! But I have to look forward to my future and move on.
You’re now studying for a career in the hospitality industry, is that right?
Yes – after graduating from Dr Graham’s Homes, I decided to pursue further studies at the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM). It’s a well-known hospitality and hotel management school with campuses across India and even overseas. I’m currently studying at the Kolkata campus. The course covers a wide range of subjects related to the hospitality industry – everything from food production and service, to housekeeping, front office operations, and hospitality marketing and communication. We also get exposure to practical training, which helps us understand how a real hotel or restaurant operates.
Why did you want to go into that industry?
What excites me most about the hospitality industry is how dynamic and people-oriented it is. I love the idea of working in an environment where you’re constantly meeting new people, learning different cultures, and creating experiences that make guests feel welcome and valued. There's a real sense of joy and purpose in making someone else’s day better through good service and attention to detail.
What has been the biggest challenge on the course so far?
I’d say the biggest challenge so far has been adjusting to life in Kolkata. Coming from Kalimpong, which is much smaller and quieter, the pace of the city took some getting used to. But over time, I’ve started to enjoy the energy and diversity of Kolkata. The course itself is demanding too – we’re learning a lot in a short time. Balancing practical work with theory can also be tough, but I’m enjoying the process.
You applied for the DGHUK Extended Sponsorship before starting your studies. Can you tell us a bit about that?
The Extended Sponsorship scheme has been such a blessing for me. It’s designed to help young people who’ve grown up at DGH continue their education beyond school – whether that’s college, university, or vocational training. I decided to apply because I knew how important it was to continue building a future for myself, but I also knew my family couldn’t afford the costs on their own. The sponsorship gave me the opportunity to chase my dreams without the constant worry of how to pay for fees, books, and transport. It made me feel seen and supported, like someone truly believed in me and my potential.
What would you like to do when you graduate?
Looking ahead, I’m very interested in joining an airline cabin crew or working on a cruise line. I love the idea of travelling, meeting people from different cultures, and creating a positive experience for guests. Both careers require strong communication skills, professionalism, and a warm personality, and I believe IIHM is preparing me well for that. One day, I hope to represent a respected airline or cruise company and make my sponsors and family proud.
After graduating from Dr Graham's Homes, Christina applied for an Extended Sponsorship to help kickstart her dream career in hotel management. This is her story.
