From Gaza to Ohio: Abdalnasser’s Journey of Resilience and Purpose
Nasser Abdalnasser
Abdalnasser, who goes by Nasser, was born and raised in Gaza—a place where opportunity was limited, but ambition was not. From an early age, he was drawn to technology, driven by a desire to learn, create, and solve problems despite the constraints around him. That passion carried him
through his undergraduate studies in Network and Mobile Technology and into a professional career as a senior mobile developer and later a university lecturer, where he mentored students and helped build software solutions for public institutions.
In October 2023, Nasser’s life was irrevocably altered. More than 200 days of war forced him to leave behind his home, his career, and nearly everything he owned. Displaced and uncertain of what the future would hold, he refused to let destruction define the rest of his life. With determination as his only constant, he relocated to Egypt and began applying to graduate programs abroad—holding tightly to his belief that education remained his path forward.
That belief brought him to the United States in September 2024, where he began his Master’s degree in Cybersecurity at the University of Toledo. Despite overwhelming personal and financial pressures, Nasser committed himself fully to his studies. Long nights, personal sacrifice, and an unshakable work ethic led to an extraordinary achievement: over three semesters, he maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA.
For Nasser, that number represents far more than academic success. It reflects resilience in the face of loss, discipline amid uncertainty, and a refusal to be defeated by circumstances beyond his control.
His first year was made possible through temporary support from his brother and significant personal sacrifices. Today, those resources have been exhausted. As a displaced student from Gaza, Nasser has no safety net to fall back on. The estimated cost of his final semester— including tuition, living expenses, and required health insurance—totals approximately $16,410.
Through the support of Arab Student Aid International, Nasser has been approved for a $5,000 interest-free loan, offering critical relief. Still, a funding gap remains—one that stands between him and the completion of his degree.
Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are not simply academic interests for Nasser; they are his purpose. His research explores how AI can be integrated into cybersecurity systems to create smarter, more adaptive defenses capable of predicting and neutralizing threats before harm occurs. He envisions applying this work to protect critical infrastructure, healthcare systems, and vulnerable communities worldwide.
With the opportunity to complete his thesis and graduate, Nasser hopes to transform hardship into impact—using the education he fought so hard to obtain to give back on a global scale.
Every contribution brings him closer to crossing the finish line. Whether through a donation or by sharing his story, support helps ensure that resilience is met with opportunity.
From Gaza to Ohio, Nasser’s journey is one of hope, determination, and the enduring power of education. With help from a community that believes in his future, he is ready to finish this chapter—and begin the work of giving back to the world.
We invite you to support Nasser through your generosity.
