“When I told my family that I had received the scholarship, my mother and I hugged each other and cried.”
These simple words from Kate-Laksatika, a student in her second year of the Higher Vocational Certificate Program (Diploma Level) in Construction and Civil Engineering, reflect the true value of an opportunity that goes far beyond financial assistance. For her, the scholarship support received through World Vision Foundation of Thailand became a turning point that allowed her educational dreams to continue instead of ending midway
Growing Up Amid Hardship
Kate first became involved with the World Vision Foundation of Thailand when she was in Grade 3 or 4 in Pak Phayun District, Phatthalung Province. At that time, she lived with her grandparents and several relatives in the same household.
Her childhood was far from easy. Her parents separated when she was in Grade 2, leaving her and her older sister under the care of their grandparents, who had the responsibility of raising several grandchildren.
“My grandparents earned a living by tapping rubber trees. Sometimes they had to borrow money just so their grandchildren could go to school,” Kate recalled.
Although her family faced financial struggles, she received continuous support throughout her participation in World Vision Thailand’s Child Sponsorship Program. The assistance included educational support, school supplies, uniforms, opportunities to participate in child and youth development activities, as well as camps and seminars that broadened her learning experiences.
Kate also had the opportunity to write letters to her sponsor, providing encouragement and reminding her that there were people who believed in her value and potential.
The Day Her Dream Almost Ended
After moving to live with her mother in downtown Phatthalung at around the age of 12, Kate continued to receive support from World Vision Thailand throughout her secondary education. However, after completing lower secondary school (Grade 9), she faced one of the most difficult decisions of her life.
“At first, I thought I would stop studying after Grade 9 because my family simply could not afford to send me to school.”
At the time, her older sister was already pursuing higher education. The family could not financially support both daughters if they continued studying at the same time.
“I thought my sister should continue her studies first because she had already completed her first year. It would be unfortunate for her to stop halfway. As for me, I thought I might study through non-formal education or find another opportunity later.”
Although heartbroken, Kate accepted the reality and believed that giving up her education might be her only option—until World Vision staff stepped in and helped secure a scholarship for her.
“This scholarship truly changed my life.”
Tears of Joy
When she received the news that she had been awarded a scholarship through the “Bachelor’s Degree Project: Supporting Vocational Students to Pursue Their Dreams,” the emotions she had held inside for so long finally poured out as tears of happiness.
“When I told my family I had received the scholarship, my mother and I hugged each other and cried. She said, ‘Congratulations. Your future can move forward now.’”
For many people, a scholarship may simply be financial support. For Kate, it represented a new doorway to life.
“This scholarship is like a light that helps me see my future.”
The support helped cover tuition fees, educational expenses, and equipment costs, especially important in vocational education where specialized tools are required.
“Without this scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to continue studying like this. I probably would have had to enroll in non-formal education because my family truly couldn’t afford it.”
Choosing a Vocational Pathway to Build Her Future
Once she was given the opportunity to continue her education, Kate decided to pursue vocational studies in Construction and Civil Engineering
She explained that after researching different options and listening to advice from those around her, she realized that vocational education could help her gain practical skills and build a foundation for her future more quickly, while also matching her interests.
“I’ve always liked civil engineering work. Many of my relatives work in this field, so I see it as a stable career that offers opportunities for growth.”
Every day, Kate rides her motorcycle more than 15 kilometers between her home and college. Yet the long journey has never weakened her determination.
“I want my family to have a better life. I want my mother to be comfortable as soon as possible, so I’m very committed to my studies.”
Today, her academic performance reflects that dedication. In her most recent semester, she achieved an impressive GPA of 3.96, demonstrating both her responsibility and determination to make the most of the opportunity she has been given.
Working Part-Time to Support Herself
Even with scholarship support, Kate continues to work part-time while studying to help ease her family’s financial burden.
She works as a waitress at a restaurant during weekday evenings and nights, and full-time on weekends. Some days, she does not finish work until midnight or even 1:00 a.m.
“I’ve been working since my first year of vocational school. Most of my daily expenses come from the income I earn myself.”
Meanwhile, her mother works at a factory producing snacks for export. Together, mother and daughter do everything they can to create a brighter future.
A Dream of Becoming an Engineer
Today, Kate has a clear goal: to complete her Higher Vocational Certificate (Diploma) and continue her studies all the way to a bachelor’s degree.
“I want to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. My dream career is to become an engineer.”
She believes that the knowledge and practical experience she gains from studying Construction and Civil Engineering will provide a strong foundation for achieving her career aspirations.
From Receiving Opportunities to Giving Them Back
When asked what she would like to say to donors and supporters, Kate responded with deep gratitude:
“I would like to thank you so much for seeing value in me, for lighting the way so I can see my future, and for giving me the opportunity to continue my education.”
She added that the best way she can repay those who have supported her is by being a good person, staying honest, studying diligently, and living up to her full potential.
“I have nothing to repay you with except my goodness, honesty, commitment to studying, and the future that will show you that the child you supported then has achieved something meaningful today.”
At the same time, she hopes that one day, when she is in a position to do so, she will be able to pass on opportunities to other children just as they were given to her.
Kate’s story is proof that a single opportunity can truly transform the course of a person’s life. When that opportunity continues to be shared, the light of hope will keep shining for countless children and young people in the years to come.
