The principal requirements for the DREAM Iowa scholarship are that the student is a high school senior or enrolled in college, demonstrates the spirit to overcome adversity, and commitment to our immigrant community. Because Amel was also present at the Virtual Youth Leadership Summit, he was also entered into the live scholarship raffle and won another scholarship in the amount of $500. 

Amel is currently studying Software Engineering and Cyber Security at Iowa State University. In his impressive essay, Amel described himself as a “first-generation American, a son of an immigrant family of war, and a scholar who pursues the betterment of education”. Amel recognizes that he and his family had many adversities to overcome, and for that reason, takes a lot of pride in his immigrant background, and sees the value in organizations and programs that empower the immigrant community through tools and resources for growth. 

Amel’s parents came to the United States fleeing the Yugoslavian Civil War. They, like so many immigrant parents, fought for the safety and wellbeing of their future children. We can only imagine how proud his parents must be, seeing his focus and determination to get to this point, knowing their sacrifice was worth it. We are so happy to be offering you these scholarships, and we look forward to seeing where your journey takes you.