Help me finish my last year of college

Hello!! my name is Isabela Polanco McCabe, and I’m an international student from the Dominican Republic at Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama. I’m currently entering my final year as a Biology major, and with God’s help, I hope to graduate in May 2026. I’m creating this fundraiser to ask for help covering part of my tuition so I can finish what I’ve worked so hard to begin. As an international student on an F-1 visa, I’m responsible for 80% of my tuition, which totals about $6,000 for this year. Right now, my parents have managed to gather $3,000, but we’re still short the remaining $3,000. Through this fundraiser, I’m humbly seeking $1,000 just enough to ease the burden on my family and make this last stretch possible.

I’ve always been passionate about science, and my dream is to work in biotechnology/marine biology. However, reaching this point has not been easy, especially over the past year.

Earlier, my mother was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative and incurable disease that has affected every part of our lives. She can no longer work, and her income used to be a crucial part of our household’s financial stability. Medical care, equipment, and daily support have now become our family’s priority, as they should. But as a result, continuing my education has become increasingly difficult. This summer, I had the opportunity to stay on campus and work to help with tuition, but I chose instead to return home and spend that time caring for my mom. That was a deeply personal decision, and I don’t regret it for a moment. Family comes first, and I wanted to be present with her during such a critical time.

My parents and siblings continue to do everything they can to support me, even when they’re already carrying so much. I’m not doing this alone but I know that the pressure is heavy on them. And that’s why I’m turning to this platform: not because I feel entitled, but because I believe that sometimes, it’s okay to ask for help when you’ve done all you can. Because of my visa status, I’m not eligible for most scholarships or financial aid. I can’t work off-campus, and while I do have a campus job, it only covers small expenses. My options are limited, but I haven’t given up. I’ve applied to every opportunity available to me, and I’m doing everything in my power to keep going.

What I’m asking for is simple: a little help to get through this final year. Just enough to relieve some of the financial pressure on my family, and allow me to focus on finishing my degree and building a future where I can give back.

If you’ve read this far, thank you. If you feel moved to support, any donation no matter how small, would mean the world to me. And if you’re not in a position to give, simply sharing this page with someone else would already be a blessing.

Thank you for believing in students like me. Your kindness will not be forgotten.

With sincere gratitude,

Isabela Polanco McCabe