Help Me Become a Doctor

Hi, my name is Shams Al-Shareefi, and I’m raising funds to help cover the cost of my medical school tuition and living expenses. I’ve recently been accepted into medical school abroad, a dream I’ve been working toward for most of my life, and I’m reaching out for your support to help me cross this final hurdle.

I immigrated to Canada with my mom when I was 9 years old. Since the age of 15, I’ve been working full-time while studying full-time to help support both of us. My mom is a single parent and has always done her best with the little she had, and I’ve taken on the responsibility of helping to provide for our household ever since I could.

Despite these challenges, I completed a Bachelor of Science with Specialized Honours in Kinesiology and Health Sciences, as well as a Bachelor of Science Honours in Global Health. I’ve always believed in the power of education to transform lives, and I’ve committed myself to that path, even when it wasn’t easy.

Now, I’ve been given the chance to study medicine, a calling I’ve felt for years, specifically in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. My passion lies in women’s health and global health, and I aspire to become an OB/GYN who not only provides care but also advocates for girls and women in vulnerable communities around the world.

Women’s health is foundational to the well-being of families, communities, and societies. When women have access to proper care, education, and reproductive autonomy, entire generations thrive. I want to be part of that change: to listen, to care, to empower, and to serve. Becoming an OB/GYN will allow me to be on the frontlines of that mission, supporting women through every stage of life with compassion and clinical excellence.

Unfortunately, because I’m attending school abroad, I am not eligible for traditional student loans in Canada without a co-signer. My mom doesn’t have the financial assets (like home ownership or a high income) that are required, and despite working hard and receiving partial support from OSAP, it’s not enough to cover my tuition and cost of living.

This is why I’m humbly asking for your support. Every dollar donated will go directly toward my tuition and basic living expenses while I’m in school. Your support isn’t just helping me become a doctor, it’s helping to build a future where I can give back as a healthcare provider and advocate for those who need it most.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting. I am so grateful for any help you can offer on this journey.

With love and gratitude,

Shams Al-Shareefi