Support Girls' Education in Rural China

At SOAR Foundation, we believe that education can change not only a life, but also what is possible for girls growing up in under-resourced communities. For many girls, financial hardship and social expectations can quietly end their education far too early.

Bella is one of the students whose path was changed through sustained support. With SOAR’s help, she continued her education step by step—and has now been admitted to a graduate program. Her journey is a powerful reminder that when support arrives at the right time, it can open doors that would otherwise remain closed.

Below is a shortened translation of Bella’s letter. For her full letter, you may visit the SOAR Newsletter (June 2025 edition).

—Letter begins—

Over the past eight years, SOAR has been my steady support and a ladder toward higher dreams. I first learned about SOAR through my teacher, who told me about a scholarship for students who were both academically capable and financially in need. That opportunity became a turning point in my life. With SOAR’s support, I was able to attend a top high school in my county and continue my education with greater confidence.

During my high school years, SOAR volunteers visited us and organized tutoring sessions. Coming from a poor region, English was our shared weakness, and we lacked access to strong learning resources. Through these sessions, SOAR helped us improve and see beyond our immediate surroundings. More importantly, it gave us encouragement at a time when many of us were uncertain about our future.

After entering university, with encouragement from mentors, I applied for SOAR’s university scholarship and have since received continued support. From my freshman year until now, SOAR has supported me not only financially, easing the burden of tuition and living expenses, but also through guidance and care. The mentors and volunteers broadened my perspective and became a steady source of support in my life.

Life is especially challenging for girls in underdeveloped regions. Many girls my age dropped out of school due to financial pressure. Some were forced to work in unfamiliar cities, while others entered early marriages, their youth gradually consumed by daily hardship. There are also those whose lives took even more difficult turns and quietly disappeared from view. Compared to them, I know how fortunate I have been.

And yet, I have been able to move forward—step by step—from village to county, from county to a larger city, and now toward an even broader future. Every stage of this journey has been supported by SOAR and by the kindness of many people.

I have not let you down. I recently passed the entrance exam for a graduate program in Traditional Chinese Medicine, focusing on gynecology. In the future, I hope to use what I have learned to protect women’s health and dignity. I also hope that society’s expectations for women can evolve—from “marry young and settle down” to “pursue knowledge and build a meaningful career.”

Looking back, I am filled with gratitude—for the hands that supported me and the light that guided me. Your support has not only lit the road ahead, but also taught me to carry hope forward. I believe that even the smallest light can grow into something powerful.

—Bella

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our mission.

Bella’s story is one example of what your support makes possible. With your help, more girls can stay in school, continue to higher education, and build futures defined by their own choices.

We hope you will continue to stand with us in creating these opportunities—one student, one story, and one future at a time.

Warm Regards and Cheers,

Shang Su

Fundrasing Project Leader & Previous SOAR Awardee

SOAR Foundation

Links:

• SOAR Newsletter (See p32-34 for Bella's story)