Help a Ph.D. Candidate Pay His Immigration Fees

My name is Mamadou; I am a first-generation Ph.D. candidate at Weill Cornell. After 22 years of living in legal limbo, I have finally found a form of relief that could lead to lawful permanent residence in the U.S. This process would allow me to take full advantage of my graduate degree and, more importantly, travel outside of the country to see my family for the first time.

As an undocumented student, my eligibility for funding is limited, and I cannot travel to international conferences to showcase my work and further my professional development. I have had to manage the stress and pressure of my immigration status for years. Still, I have persevered, passing my qualifying exam earlier this year to become a Ph.D. candidate.

I discovered I was undocumented in high school but was undeterred in pursuing higher education. I earned my A.S. degree from Essex County College in 2014, my B.S. from New Jersey City University in 2016, and I am on my way to receiving my Ph.D. from Weill Cornell Medical College. Before grad school, I worked on developing a COVID-19 vaccine and participated in community outreach. My research currently focuses on improving cancer treatments. In addition to my ongoing research, I am passionate about giving back and helping to diversify the science field, serving as the director of mentorship and outreach for Black in Cancer.

Contributing to the high cost of my immigration application would take a burden off my plate, enabling me to focus on my academic and mentorship pursuits. Gaining a lawful immigration status is life-changing; please consider donating whatever you can!

I appreciate your support.