Auxilia Fatima Gago dos Santos Marques is a 15-year-old student in the 11th grade at Escola Secundária Católica Nossa Senhora de Fátima (NOSSEF), in Railaco. She lives in the female dormitory and has been studying at the school since 2025. For Auxilia, being at NOSSEF is not only about learning in the classroom, but also about growing as a person. One of the most meaningful parts of her journey has been receiving a scholarship, which has supported her education and given her confidence to keep moving forward.

Auxilia first came to know about NOSSEF through a family connection. She decided to take the entrance test together with a friend, and both were accepted. At the beginning, the choice to continue her studies at NOSSEF was not easy. “At first, I didn’t really want to continue,” she shared. “But little by little, I felt that I wasn’t alone. The teachers here really care.” Feeling supported helped her settle in and begin to see NOSSEF as a place where she could grow.

Coming from a family with several siblings, Auxilia understands how important opportunities like education can be. Her parents work hard to support the family, and receiving a scholarship brought a sense of relief and happiness at home. “When I received the scholarship, my parents were very happy,” she said. “It helped them, and it also motivated me to study better.” Knowing that she could continue her education without adding pressure to her family gave Auxilia peace of mind and a stronger sense of responsibility.

Photo: Auxilia in classroom learning with her friends.

The scholarship also changed how Auxilia sees herself. Through discipline and effort, she achieved first place in her class and received recognition from both her classmates and the school. This achievement later became the basis for receiving merit-based support. “I want to keep improving myself,” she explained. “I hope I can continue studying well and become even better.” Being trusted and supported encouraged her to believe more in her own abilities.

As her confidence grew, Auxilia became more involved in school life. She joined the Pastoral Team, where she learned how to speak in front of others and take on leadership roles. “Before, I was shy,” she reflected, “but now I’m learning how to speak and lead.” She also takes part in the drum band group and had the opportunity to join CSIL Science Week. For her, one of the best parts of this experience was having time to prepare and practice, which helped her feel more confident.

Life in the dormitory has also played an important role in her journey. The quiet environment helps her focus on studying, and the culture of discipline and mutual respect makes her feel comfortable. At first, adapting to new friendships was not easy, but over time, her relationships with friends became stronger. “In the beginning, it was hard,” she said, “but now my friendships are very good.”

Auxilia also feels that her spiritual life has changed during her time at NOSSEF. Through reflection sessions and school activities, she has learned how to pray and reflect more deeply. “My spiritual life has changed a lot,” she shared. “Now I know how to pray.” These moments help her stay grounded and grateful.

Photo: Auxilia stands behind her classroom in NOSSEF after the interviewing.

For Auxilia, the scholarship means more than just support for herself. She sees it as something that brings hope to her family as well. “This scholarship is very important for me,” she said. “Because of this support, my younger sibling can also have the opportunity to go to school.” This belief motivates her to continue doing her best, not only for her own future, but also for her family.

In her message to donors, Auxilia expresses sincere gratitude and hope. She encourages continued support for students like her, because scholarships make it possible for young people to keep learning, dreaming, and building a better future.

Auxilia’s story, therefore, shows how a scholarship can make a quiet but powerful difference in a student’s life. Through care, encouragement, and opportunity, she is growing into a confident and motivated young person. For Auxilia, the scholarship is not only helping her continue her education—it is helping her believe in herself and in the future she is working toward.

Written by:

Gracieta Ximenes, ETR Communications Volunteer