A First Generation Dream: Help Me Attend GMU

Hi, my name is Natali Ochoa, and I’m humbly reaching out to ask for your support as I take the next big step in my education and my life.

I come from a family of hardworking immigrants from El Salvador, who recently became proud U.S. citizens. My parents work tirelessly as staff support at local clubs in Washington, D.C., often putting in long hours to make ends meet. Their sacrifices and resilience have always been my greatest source of inspiration. Watching them work so hard, despite the challenges they’ve faced, motivates me to strive for a better life—not just for myself, but for them as well.

As the first person in my family to attend college, I’ve been determined to make the most of every opportunity. I recently graduated from Northern Virginia Community College with an associate’s degree in Business Administration and a 3.7 GPA. Now, I’m ready to take the next step by earning my bachelor’s degree in Business at George Mason University.

This dream, however, comes with a price tag that my family and I simply cannot afford. Despite applying for financial aid, scholarships, and working full-time, I still face a significant gap in funding. The thought of letting financial barriers hold me back after coming this far is heartbreaking.

Attending George Mason means so much more than just earning a degree. It’s about creating a path toward stability, giving back to my parents for all their sacrifices, and setting an example for others in my community who dream of achieving what once seemed impossible.

I’m asking for your help to make this dream a reality. Every donation, no matter the size, will bring me closer to walking the halls of George Mason University and building a future that my family and I can be proud of.

If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing my story with others would mean the world to me.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading my story and for any support you can offer. Your kindness and generosity will have a lasting impact on my life and the future I’m working so hard to build.

With endless gratitude,

Natali Ochoa