Dreams to Reality: Scholarships That Truly Change Lives

Receiving a scholarship can be a turning point, opening doors that once seemed forever closed. Here’s how one of the Cuomo Foundations’ scholarships has made all the difference:

Roshan Susairaj, a recipient of sustained academic support since 2013, celebrated the attainment of his master’s degree diploma at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, London, during the graduation ceremony on July 16, 2026.

Born in 2003 in Chennai, Southern India, Roshan’s formative years were shaped by significant adversity, including limited resources, recurrent natural disasters, and persistent health challenges. The dedicated educational and financial assistance provided by the Cuomo Foundation played a pivotal role in transforming his prospects. The ongoing support granted him access to vital medical care, comprehensive guidance, and a robust education—elements essential to the foundation of his academic journey and holistic well-being.

After completing his secondary school education, Roshan pursued a degree in Computer Science at Patrician College of Arts and Science in Chennai. Eager to broaden his horizons, he continued his academic trajectory in the United Kingdom. He undertook an intensive English language programme at Regent’s College, London (2024–25), culminating in success on the IELTS examination. Subsequently, he enrolled in the MSc in Computer Science programme at St Mary’s University, where he has now achieved a significant academic milestone.

Roshan’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of targeted assistance and personal determination. Throughout his academic career, the stability provided by the scholarship allowed him to focus on his studies, foster new ambitions, and develop valuable life skills. Rather than being hindered by the weight of financial uncertainty, he embraced opportunities that expanded his worldview and deepened his expertise.

An Intensive Year of Growth

At St Mary’s, Roshan kept up his academic performance and engaged in collaborative projects and extra-curricular activities. These experiences helped him build practical skills and gave him a sense of confidence as he looks ahead to starting his career.

Moving from Chennai to London was a big step, and it brought new possibilities that hadn’t seemed likely before. With steady support from the Cuomo Foundation and a willingness to keep trying, Roshan managed to overcome some difficult times and reach a personal milestone.

Now, as a graduate, Roshan appreciates the difference that this kind of support can make. His story shows that with the right help, students from challenging backgrounds can take important steps forward reminding us that scholarships can quietly but powerfully change lives.

In His Own Words

"Graduating from St Mary's University, Twickenham, with a Master of Science in Computer Science is one of the proudest moments of my life. This degree represents years of determination, sacrifice, perseverance, and hard work.

This moment is especially meaningful because my father never had the opportunity to pursue higher education. When my name, Roshan Susairaj, is called on the graduation stage, it is not just my name being recognised — it is my father's name, Susairaj, spoken with pride. This is a tribute to my father, whose sacrifices made my education possible, and to my mother, whose unconditional love and strength supported me throughout this journey.

I am deeply grateful to the Cuomo Foundation for believing in my potential. Their generosity gave me the opportunity to pursue my studies at St Mary's University. As I receive my diploma, I carry with me not only an academic qualification, but the values my parents instilled in me: humility, resilience, integrity, and perseverance.

I believe this graduation is not the end of my learning journey, but the beginning of using my education, knowledge, and skills to create a positive impact on the world."

Founded in 1850, St Mary's University, Twickenham is one of the United Kingdom's most established institutions of higher learning. Located in southwest London, it is recognised for its high-quality teaching, diverse international student body, and strong record of graduate employability.