Breaking Barriers: My Journey to Education and Empowerment at Ashoka University

I am Radha Pokhariya, born and brought up in Uttarakhand. I come from a middle-class family with seven members, and my father shoulders the responsibility of being our sole earner. Financial constraints have been a major obstacle to my educational ambitions. In the backdrop of rural India, where awareness about higher studies and universities is limited, my dream was to join a liberal arts university to explore a diverse range of subjects. Despite unwavering support from my family, financial constraints hindered my educational pursuits. Ashoka University has become a beacon of hope, providing me with the support I needed to embark on my educational journey.

From the application process to becoming an undergraduate student, I’ve received tremendous support at every step. Ashoka University’s financial aid programme has been instrumental in realising my undergraduate ambitions. This support, offered without discrimination, not only relieved the financial burden on my family but also instilled in me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone. It also inspires a belief in my parents that girls are self-sufficient and capable of managing their chores.

My time at Ashoka has been empowering, providing me not only with a quality education but also the courage to face some of the biggest challenges. I have been able to explore a broad range of subjects under the liberal arts curriculum, encouraging me to think critically and solve problems. Through this holistic approach to education, I have been equipped with the tools needed to deal with the complexity of the world outside the campus.

The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum has broadened my perspective and enabled me to cope with complex issues. It’s not just the acquisition of knowledge but also the development of a sense of responsibility and a commitment to creating positive change in society that is part of this education.

To prospective students considering Ashoka University, especially those concerned about financing their education, I would offer the advice of exploring the robust financial aid programmes available. In its efforts to support students from a variety of backgrounds, Ashoka is committed to ensuring access to quality education. Do not allow financial constraints to prevent you from fulfilling your dreams.

(Radha Pokhariya is a part of the Undergraduate programme 2026.)