Charles Nuruzzaman

Charles NuruzzamanSt. Bonaventure University
Class of 2002
Philosophy
Hometown: New York, NY

What does HEOP mean to me? It has given me a chance at life.

After high school, I entered HEOP at St. Bonaventure University. The staff welcomed me with open arms; they made me feel like it was home. The staff cares about the students. They always take a moment to ask how I am doing and to offer assistance when it is necessary. If I am having difficulties in a class, they encourage me to get a tutor.

It offers students not only financial assistance but also emotional support. If it was not for this support many students would not continue past the first semester. The staff gave me support even when I made mistakes. The fact that the staff was behind me one hundred percent motivated me to do well in school. This support gave me the opportunity to show off my talent in academic endeavors.

I am grateful for my four-year experience in HEOP. If it were not for HEOP, I would not have had the opportunity to do summer research with a professor, to make the dean’s list, to work as resident assistant or to volunteer for the campus soup kitchen. With these great experiences, I can look forward to being a productive person. In particular, I will be able to give back to the university and my community. HEOP, a state supported program, gives deserving students a chance at a better life.

The Higher Education Opportunity Program gives students the opportunity to attend a good college and make something of their lives. If this program was not available, many students could not attend college. College expenses are great and many people do not have the financial assistance to attend an institution of higher learning.

HEOP gives deserving students a chance.