From Delhi’s Slums to the University Of Sydney: The Truly INSPIRING Story of Tripti

Tripti grew up in the slums of Delhi, where basic amenities were often unavailable. Now she is studying Master of Strategic Public Relations at the University of Sydney, living at St Paul’s College and gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to build a successful career.

Tripti arrived in Sydney in June 2024 to begin her Graduate Academic Skills course provided by Centre for English Teaching, before starting her master’s degree in August 2024. She is a recipient of one of the University’s new Sydney International Equity Scholarships – created for exceptional postgraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds around the world – awarded in collaboration with Indian charity, the Asha Community Health and Development Society (Asha). Here’s bringing the truly inspirational story of this young, hardworking girl. Read on…

By Nidhi Kumari

Growing up in the slums of Delhi, what were some of the most difficult challenges you faced that shaped your determination to pursue education?

Growing up in the Vivekanand slum community in Delhi exposed me to the harsh realities of life without basic needs. One of the biggest challenges was the lack of proper sanitation. We had to use a public washroom shared by over 5000 people. It was often unhygienic, and as a girl, it was uncomfortable and stressful. Water supply was another major issue. We relied on tankers to fill our buckets, as there was no consistent water system. We had to manage our daily water usage carefully due to the irregular supply. Electricity was also unreliable. There was no legal electricity in our area, so we had to make do with what we could get, which was often intermittent. These issues with water, electricity, and sanitation were constant challenges that impacted my daily life.

In this context, the support I received from the Asha Society, especially from founder Dr Kiran Martin, was a beacon of hope for me. They believed in my potential when I doubted myself, motivating me to pursue higher education and providing financial assistance. Their unwavering encouragement and guidance made me realise that education could be my pathway to change – not just for myself, but for my entire community.

Can you describe the moment you first heard about the Sydney International Equity Scholarship and how it felt knowing you might study abroad?

The moment I learned about the Sydney International Equity Scholarship was truly transformative. I remember sitting in a meeting when Dr Kiran Martin shared this incredible opportunity. My heart raced with excitement and disbelief as I absorbed the idea of studying abroad. It felt surreal, yet it sparked a hope within me that I could create a better future for myself and my community. This scholarship represented more than just education; it was a glimmer of possibility beyond my current reality. I realised that with this opportunity, I could gain the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact. The thought of experiencing new cultures and ideas ignited a fire within me, making me believe I could overcome the limitations of my circumstances. That moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life – one filled with hope, purpose and a commitment to social change.

The Asha Community Health and Development Society played a key role in your journey. How did their support impact your life and educational path?

I once thought I should start working as soon as I could to help my family. But the people at Asha Society saw my potential and encouraged me to continue my education. With their guidance and mentorship, I began to see that pursuing my studies could lead to a better future.  I decided to study English because I love reading and writing. It seemed like a good base for further studies. Asha  provided access to educational resources and opportunities I had never imagined. Their belief in me gave me the confidence to aim higher.

Since arriving in Sydney, how have you adapted to the educational environment, and what differences have you noticed compared to your experiences in India?

Adjusting to the educational environment in Sydney has been both challenging and rewarding. Learning here is more practical compared to what I experienced in India. Back home, we spent a lot of time focusing on theoretical concepts, which were important but didn’t always connect to real-world applications. Here the approach is quite different. We engage in real-world projects and case studies that allow us to apply what we’re learning in a hands-on way. This practical approach is entirely new to me, and I’m finding it both exciting and challenging. For instance, instead of just reading about strategic communication theories, we’re working on actual case studies and simulations that mimic real-life scenarios. This makes the learning process more engaging and relevant, as it shows me how the theories work in practice. I’m really enjoying this new way of learning because it helps me understand how to use my knowledge in real-world situations. By working on projects that mirror real-life challenges, I’m better prepared for my future career. This hands-on experience is invaluable, as it not only deepens my understanding but also builds practical skills that will be crucial in my professional life.

I’ve had to manage my time more effectively and adapt to a more independent learning approach. Despite the initial challenges, this transition has been a valuable opportunity for growth, and I’m excited to apply what I’m learning.

As a Master of Strategic Public Relations student, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to apply the skills you’re gaining at the University of Sydney?

My future career goal is to work in public relations, focusing on advocating for marginalised communities. Witnessing my family and community struggle with basic needs like water and sanitation inspired me to seek change. With my education in public relations, I plan to spotlight and address the issues faced by disadvantaged communities. I aim to use my skills to ensure their voices are heard and to advocate for effective solutions.  This education isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about equipping me to make a difference. I feel confident that the practical skills and insights I’m gaining will help me contribute to the community in a meaningful way. I’m excited about the future and the opportunity to use what I’ve learned to make a real impact in the field of PR.

You’re the first in your family to study abroad. How has this achievement impacted your family, and what does it mean to them?

Being the first person from my family and community in the slum to study abroad is a dream come true, and this scholarship makes it all possible. It’s more than just financial help. It’s a lifeline that lightens the load on my family and brings them immense pride. For my parents, who have worked so hard to give us a better life, this scholarship feels like a reward for their endless sacrifices. For my community, this scholarship is a powerful symbol of hope and possibility. It shows that even if we start with very little, we can achieve great things with the right support.

What advice would you give to young students from disadvantaged backgrounds who may feel that studying abroad is an unattainable dream?

I’d tell them what Dr Kiran ma’am once said to me: “Dream big, work hard and never lose hope.” Education can be your pathway to change and a tool for transforming your life. It opens doors to opportunities you may not have thought possible. With determination you can overcome challenges and achieve great things. Remember, every step you take in your educational journey brings you closer to realising your dreams.

How do you envision using your education to give back to your community or address the challenges faced by others growing up in similar circumstances?

I envision using my education in public relations to give back to my community by advocating for social issues that affect marginalised groups. Witnessing my family and community struggle with basic needs like water and sanitation inspired me to seek change. With my education in public relations, I plan to spotlight and address the issues faced by disadvantaged communities. I aim to use my skills to ensure their voices are heard and to advocate for effective solutions.