Thriving in a New Environment – Fatoumata Sacko

Graduating with Highest Honor and earning a degree in Mathematics this May, Fatoumata Sacko is the Class of 2025 student speaker. Community College of Philadelphia gave her the opportunity to start over and accomplish her goals, and work to help others reach their potential.

As an immigrant, mother and first-generation student, Fatoumata encountered challenges but always kept moving forward. While still learning English, she struggled at first with understanding lectures and keeping up with assignments.

“I didn’t give up. I asked for help and stayed late to study,” she said.

The support and assistance from other students, a mentor and staff at CCP helped Fatoumata become more confident in her abilities, and she was encouraged to give back to others.

She volunteered as a mentor through AmeriCorps, helping other students navigate their college experience and became a math tutor for students in nearby schools through the College’s Adopt-A-School program. Fatoumata also helped students at CCP as a Lion Leader.

“I developed a good sense of leadership. I have learned so many things. The support makes me want to give back to my community,” she said.

Fatoumata’s academic achievements have earned her several scholarships, including the All-PA Academic Team Scholarship, the PECO Scholarship for STEM students, and she is currently a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship, which would provide funds to mostly cover tuition, fees, living expenses, and books as she works toward her bachelor’s degree.

She hopes others can learn from her story and pursue their education, even if they have doubts.

“It’s going to be hard, but I’m an immigrant, and I came here in 2022. I am a single mother, I go to school and I work as a tutor. It’s not going to be easy, but it’s possible. I’ve gotten a lot of scholarships and have served my community. Resiliency is the key,” said Fatoumata.

As she prepares for transfer to a four-year program, Fatoumata is grateful for her time at the College.

“CCP gave me the space to grow, to lead, and to believe in myself, both academically and personally. Choosing CCP was one of the best decisions I’ve made,” said Fatoumata.