A Karen student from Omaha, Nebraska won
Gates Millennium Scholarship Program in 2014.
By Saw Khu
Karen Society of Nebraska-Omaha
May 29, 2014
Seven Four and his mother at award ceremony
Seven Four, his mother and aunt at graduation ceremony.
In what was a divine move to prove that the Karen mind can be competitive not only nationally but also globally, Seven Four, a Karen refugee from Burma, received the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship (GMSP) Award on May 2014. It was in 2006 when together with his mother and siblings he came from Tham Hin Refugee Camp in Thailand to Omaha through Lutheran Family Services, Inc. Previously, his sister, Paw Mu Har, also won the GMSP award in 2010. She is now attending at (UNO), University of Nebraska in Omaha and has recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration. Each year, GMSP is available for all refugees and immigrants to apply for this program. Out of 52,000 applicants, it is only given to 1,000 selected students. The program offers significant financial assistance by covering unmet costs during the student's undergraduate career. It also strives to increase the representation of minorities in certain academic disciplines by providing assistance through the master’s and the doctoral levels. The GMSP views academic and leadership mentoring and support as an important part of a student's success. It is a tremendous blessing for Seven and his sister. He has recently graduated from Omaha South Magnet High School and will be attending UNO in Omaha. His ultimate goal and ambitious is to become a physician. Since 2010, 5 young Karen students have received the GMSP award and they are all currently studying in universities. Knowing that the Karen student in the USA has in their natural capabilities to excel in life, this is a great motivation for our communities and our nation to strive for the highest possible achievement. Hopefully, many more Karen youths avail of scholarships such as GMSP to help level up the welfare of our people internationally. Congratulations to Seven Four and best wishes for his future success!