Emergency funds in a crisis moment can rescue an educational journey
The timing of several significant financial costs threatened to derail Beth’s degree journey, but a donor-supported student emergency fund allowed her to continue the semester.
Beth Bingham manages an incredibly busy life as a single parent to three young children while working a part-time job and pursuing her ³Ô¹ÏÍø as a mature student at the ³Ô¹ÏÍø. Every day, she balances academic expectations with childcare and the realities of supporting her family.
Beth works as many hours as she can, but her wages don’t even cover her family’s groceries. Student loans and bursaries make up the difference to keep the family afloat.
Despite the challenges, Beth has found a profound joy in returning to university following a break in her career. Recently divorced and feeling that she has spent the last several years focusing on the needs of others, she determined that her education would be a well-deserved gift dedicated to herself. When her original major in Psychology didn’t fully resonate, she embraced her interest in photography by transferring to Visual Arts.
“It took a lot of courage to switch to a subject more aligned with my values and interests; to bet on myself in that way,” she says. “I absolutely love attending UVic. The entire Faculty of Fine Arts is a close-knit community, and it feels very supportive.”
Last summer, this delicate balance nearly came crashing down. Beth faced a significant crisis with emergency dental expenses just as tuition for the upcoming semester was due. The timing couldn’t have been worse, as the financial pressure threatened to derail her ³Ô¹ÏÍø and compromise her plans for the future.
A lifeline in time of need
In a moment of vulnerability and distress, Beth reached out to UVic’s Student Awards and Financial Aid office. The response was immediate and compassionate—the officer quickly assessed Beth’s challenging situation and determined that she qualified for the Charles and Ruth Haywood Memorial Emergency Fund.
“I was out for a walk with my kids when I got the email, and I started crying. I remember having to stop and breathe—it was so overwhelming to know that every concern that I was having was fixed instantly,” she recalls. “I felt intense relief and gratitude. It was hard to comprehend that level of generosity.”
Urgently needed support in place, Beth was given the opportunity to continue her ³Ô¹ÏÍø without the paralyzing worry of financial collapse. This relief allowed her to focus more intently on her academic pursuits and the personal growth that comes from exploring a field she is passionate about.
“The generous funding I received saved both my sanity and my education. I am uncertain if I would have been able to continue the semester, or even beyond, without it,” she says.
This support has ignited in Beth an overwhelming sense of optimism for her future. As she plans to continue her education beyond her BFA with hopes of pursuing graduate ³Ô¹ÏÍø, she aims to integrate her background in teaching, art education, and her newfound focus on the intersection of visual arts, psychology, and neuroscience.
“I’m interested in my own art practice, but I really think it’s valuable in mental health and community building,” she says. “I truly believe in the healing powers of art and this financial support gives students like me the resources to not give up on our dreams.”
Beth’s experience extends beyond personal aspirations. As the first person in her family to attend university, she views her progress as an inspiring example for her children.
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