When all else fails, family will always be there to pick you up. 

That’s what Maria Fatima, a student of the National University of Samoa, believes.

The girl from Leauva’a-Uta believes the family will always be there to support and motivate you in your journey through life.

The Village Voice team met Ms. Maria while on her way for exams yesterday afternoon.

Ms. Fatima is the youngest of seven siblings and her brother is the only one working in their family.

“My older brother is the only person our family is relying on for our daily needs,” she said.

“I have seven siblings and all of them are married and have moved out while one brother still lives with us and is the sole breadwinner for our family.”

Ms. Fatima said her brother motivates her to strive for the best in her education.

“I am a first year student at the National University of Samoa studying a Bachelor of Commerce program and I already understand the struggle my family faces.”

“I have thought of quitting school to look for a job but then my family tells me to fight hard and to try and achieve my goals.”

Ms. Fatima also shared her goal in life.

“Right now the only goal is to graduate and get a good job so that I can support my family.”

“My family has been supporting me in my education and seeing their sacrifice and support motivates me.”

Ms. Fatima said we must make use of the opportunities that are given to us.

“I just want to let everyone know that opportunities come once in a lifetime and we have to make the most of it.”

“Like my situation, the chance of me attending school is so little and I am making the most of it in order to achieve my goals and support my family.”