CMU student closer to realising dream

Come September, Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) student Udrick Tingle will be returning to school hassle free after donors saw his story and came to his rescue.

Tingle, who was in a predicament to complete his degree due to an outstanding balance of J$400,000, has managed to raise a $274,000 of the funds. His dream of elevating his family from the realms of poverty is still alive.

"I'm so grateful and humbled right now and I want to say a big thank you to the persons who saw my story and decided to reach out," Tingle told THE STAR. "I'm definitely going back to school, that I'm sure of."

He added "One international foundation has gotten in touch with CMU regarding paying the full of what is owed to the school and some persons said that closer to the time they'll send to my school's account. This is a very happy moment for me because it feels like everything is coming together for me now."

Tingle was forced to delay his studies for a year as his struggles wouldn't allow him to continue. He is pursuing a degree in customs processes, freight forwarding and immigration.

His story appeared in THE STAR on March 11 and Tingle was surprised at the outpouring of love he received.

"I had no idea people still exist with such thoughtfulness, people just kept calling and messaging. My phone was loaded with messages from the same day the story was published," he said.

"I just want to finish school to be that change in my family, because it was never easy on us. I always had the determination to do things on my own from I was young, because I realised my mother's struggle, and I just started to have an independent mindset."

The Runaway Bay, St Ann, resident said that his ultimate dream is to be a mogul of change in his community, where many youth never seem to elevate themselves.

In addition to the funds received, Tingle has also landed a job to further help him to prepare for future endeavours.

"I've gotten a full-time job with RIU hotel, where my work schedule will allow me to attend school full time, thanks to their awesome security manager. Plus, I get Sabbaths off to attend church," he told THE STAR.