Dear Editor,
I write this letter as a sign of light and hope not only for international students but also for anyone in need of encouragement to endure, persevere, and finish this year strong.
Greetings and Talofa, my name is Jeanne Penny Togiailua, and I have a dream. I was born in Apia but raised in American Samoa. When I was young, I thought that I was the same as all my peers but, growing up I began to realize that I did not have the same privileges as they did. I did not carry a navy blue passport with the eagle cover, or have a social security number, and was not able to apply for scholarships with no restrictions of citizenship; but that did not stop me. Today, by the grace of God, despite my disadvantages, I now have acquired a passport, social security number, a job, and two Associates of Science Degrees in Business and Accounting, Cum Laude at American Samoa Community College.
I’m inspired by my mom Olive Togiailua, who is a tough single mother who has been working the majority of her life at Starkist. To this day, she has never travelled to other countries other than American Samoa, when we moved here from Apia. Being her only child, it has motivated me to dream of something bigger than myself, which is starting my own business one day. Moreover, I’m also motivated to persevere because of my loving family, my second parents Benjamin Sr. Waterhouse and Tupou Waterhouse and my siblings Benjamin, May, Joyita, James, Shaun, and Ponita, and especially the endless support from the love of my life Tim Jr. Beterua.
Also, special thanks to Fa’afua and Joey Cummings, Tuai and Case Auvaa-Mua, Fa’alafi Elisapeta Jones, Pastor Andy and Leone Forsgren, Pastor Terry, Tina, and Pua Tofaeono, Christian Wright- Saalea, and my business instructors Dr. Faatoafe, Mr. Lam Yuen Jr., and Mr. Taua’i for investing in my educational journey. Your labour of love is not in vain. May God bless you all and your families abundantly.
Regardless of my financial hindrances, I am encouraged to never give up and finish strong. One day, I would love to give back to the community in the sense of decreasing this island’s unemployment rate. In addition, I also believe that there is still hope in education for International Students. So by the grace of God, graduating ASCC and completing this 5 year long educational race on December 17th 2021, serves as my sign of hope that a deserving International Student like myself can still pursue an education despite the cost.
Never give up! Merry Christmas and I pray that my story serves as your sign of hope and endurance today.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Togiailua
