Eissa Hassan's journey to graduation has been more challenging than most.

After leaving his home in Yemen, the 28-year-old arrived in the UK, determined not to be defined by his past, but his future.

Eissa explains: "Arriving in the UK as a refugee with nothing but hope, with limited resources, I faced the daunting task of rebuilding my life from the ground up. I sought a place that didn't just offer education - but transformation.

"I chose the University of Aberdeen because it embodies opportunity and growth. This institution opened its doors to me at a time I needed it most, nurturing my potential and empowering me to turn hardship into leadership. This University welcomed me with open arms and gave me not just an education, but a community and a future.

"Entering this new academic environment felt like stepping into a world vastly different from anything I had known. I confronted self-doubt about my ability to integrate and succeed. As a refugee adjusting to unfamiliar cultural and educational norms, I grappled with feelings of uncertainty and isolation.

"However, this initial apprehension gave way to resilience. Through daily engagement, academic challenges and support from the University community, I began to adapt and grow. This period marked a critical turning point, affirming my capacity to overcome adversity, embrace new opportunities and commit myself to lifelong learning and personal development."

While studying for his degree in Business Management, Eissa was able to pursue not only his academic passions, but learn more about himself and what he wanted for his future.

He continues: "Studying Business Management has been both academically enriching and personally empowering. I had the privilege of representing youth voices on climate justice globally, coordinate sustainability programmes and lead community events - all while balancing my studies.

"One of the most meaningful highlights was working with climate and refugee networks across the UK and internationally, turning my lived experience into leadership. Of course, there were challenges - financial pressure, culture shock and grief after losing my mother, who passed away four months after I arrived in Aberdeen. But I found strength in my purpose and support from peers and staff who believed in me. Aberdeen gave me more than a degree; it gave me the platform to become the change I want to see in the world."

His journey has not been easy, but with resilience and support from the University community, Eissa is proud to be celebrating his hard work at his graduation.

"Graduating fills me with profound gratitude and heartfelt reflection. This milestone represents not only the culmination of my academic journey but also the resilience required to overcome significant challenges. It reaffirms my belief that where we begin does not define where we can go and honours the sacrifices of my late mother. She was such an important part of my life and her dream was always to see me succeed. I was always trying to make her proud and happy and in the end, I feel like she succeeded.

"This achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance, reminding me of my potential and the meaningful impact that dedication and determination can create. My future aspirations are to advance my work in climate justice, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable communities disproportionately impacted by climate change. I look forward to leading with purpose, guided by the lessons of my past and hope for the future."

Notes for Editors

Issued by

The Communications Team

Directorate of External Relations, University of Aberdeen, King's College, Aberdeen

Contact

Saskia Harper

Issued on

03 July 2025