This story first appeared in the December 31, 2025 edition of the Palm Beach Post
Nedjie Aurelien, of Delray Beach, is a sophomore at the University of Central Florida. (courtesy, Nedjie Aurelien)
As the first person in my family to pursue higher education, I understand this achievement is not mine alone.
I grew up in Delray Beach, where I was guided by hope and the possibility of changing my family’s story. So, my success belongs to those who came before me — especially my parents — whose sacrifices make this opportunity possible and inspire me to approach my education with purpose, responsibility and gratitude.
Early in my senior year of high school, I realized that while I had the ambition, work ethic and academic credentials to attend college, my family and I simply could not shoulder the financial burden that came with it. I knew that without meaningful financial support, my dream of attending college and fully participating in the experience could easily slip away.
I spent much of that year in my guidance counselor’s office, researching and applying for every scholarship I could find. I focused particularly on academic and merit-based opportunities tied to creative writing, a passion I had been nurturing through a personal project: publishing my first collection of poetry, “Nesting Dolls.”
Writing has always been my way of understanding the world, and I hope to one day combine storytelling with meaningful engagement as a journalist who bridges cultures and lived experiences.
It wasn’t until I learned about the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties that my dream began to feel truly attainable, without being overshadowed by debt.
Through a college-preparedness program at my high school, I was introduced to the Community Foundation and its extensive scholarship and grant programs. The foundation partners with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to provide students with the financial resources to pursue higher education.
But what sets the Community Foundation apart is that its support extends well beyond tuition assistance. The organization invests in students as whole people.
I know this because I am living proof.
In the fall of 2024, I was honored to receive the Lawrence A. Sanders Scholarship Fund for Creative Writing, offered by the Community Foundation. I am now enrolled at the University of Central Florida and majoring in communications, where I am able to focus on my studies while actively participating in campus life.
I currently write for UCF’s Her Campus chapter, an online magazine that allows me to sharpen my voice and grow as a writer — an opportunity made possible by the stability this scholarship provides.
The Community Foundation’s support has also allowed me to pursue a lifelong goal of studying abroad. This summer I will study intercultural communication in Rome.
As a Black student, this experience carries particular significance. According to Open Doors data, Black students comprised just 6.1% of Americans studying abroad during the 2023-2024 academic year.
That statistic highlights how rare and how important this opportunity is. I am proud to be part of the change.
Beyond financial aid, the Community Foundation offers wrap-around services, including success coaching and peer connection opportunities. Through this program, I have navigated college challenges, gained confidence and experienced things I never imagined, including attending my first Broadway show.
To students who dream of college but feel intimidated by the cost: Don’t let numbers define your future.
Organizations like the Community Foundation exist because they believe in education, equity and potential. They invest in students not just to succeed, but to give back and lift others as they rise. And to the donors who give through the Community Foundation, thank you. Your generosity transforms aspirations into opportunities and makes dreams like mine possible.
Nedjie Aurelien of Delray Beach is a sophomore at the University of Central Florida.
