Birthright of Boise scholarship helps mom pursue her dreams

Jaqi Kararic, far right, poses with her parents Asmir and Isabel Kararic. (ICR photo/Kathryn Ineck)

by Kathryn Pasker Ineck

ICR Assistant Editor

Jaqi Kararic, St. Mark’s, Boise, is a student at CWI and the second recipient of the Birthright Scholarship. She works for the St. Luke’s Health System as a medical assistant and is working toward becoming an emergency medicine physician’s assistant.

“Birthright’s scholarship has helped me immensely,” she said. “During my second semester of the medical assisting program, I was on the verge of having to withdraw because I had no way to pay the remaining tuition. When Birthright stepped in, it truly felt like someone had answered my prayers. The scholarship has also helped in my day-to-day life by allowing me to save money for gas, groceries, and Kash’s needs while continuing my education.”

When she became pregnant with now-four-year-old Kash, “I was scared and sad because I didn’t know how I was going to raise a baby. I expected my family to be upset, but instead they became my biggest supporters. Their love and encouragement gave me the confidence to keep moving forward.”

“My family has helped me with everything. They supported me as I left an abusive situation, helped Kash and me get settled into our new reality, and have continued to encourage me while I balance work, school, and raising Kash. I truly don’t know where I would be without them.”

Often, people think to give monetary gifts, meals or other material items to new moms. We can help mothers in other ways, too. Jaqi said, “I think the best thing you can give a pregnant woman or new mom is your support. Sometimes having someone who will simply listen without judgment can make all the difference. Offering to watch the baby for a little while so she can shower, rest, or take care of herself is also incredibly meaningful. Those small acts of kindness can have a huge impact.”

Ongoing needs for moms in Jaqi’s position also include “affordable childcare, financial assistance, flexibility while pursuing education or work, and emotional support. Knowing that someone believes in you and is willing to help can make all the difference,” she said.

“Becoming a mom changed the direction of my life, but it didn’t end my dreams,” Jaqi commented. “In many ways, it gave me a bigger reason to chase them. Everything I’m working toward is to build a better future for my son. I’m incredibly grateful to Birthright for believing in moms like me and helping make those dreams possible.”