Hi everyone, my name is Sophia.

Coming to the University of Pittsburgh as an out-of-state student was so scary, but I quickly realized it was the best decision I’ve ever made. For the first time, I found exactly what was missing in my life. This has been the place that finally feels like home.

I’m currently heading into my sophomore year as a Nursing major. Since I was little, I’ve known I wanted to be a nurse and make a difference in people's lives. My grandfathers passing from cancer was what pushed me to be a nurse. I’ll admit: nursing is incredibly hard. I have struggled, I have put in long hours, and I have worked my hardest every single day to keep up with the demands of the program. But I’m not giving up, because this is who I know I am; a nurse.

Unfortunately, out-of-state tuition has become a huge burden for me. Despite applying for dozens of scholarships, I haven't been able to secure the funding needed to cover the rest of my time here at the University of Pittsburgh. The thought of having my life—and my future—ripped away from me is heartbreaking.

Here at Pitt, I’ve found a community. I’ve met friends who are truly the best thing that has ever happened to me. They are truly my support system, my family away from home, and the people who keep me going when the coursework gets tough. I want to earn my degree here so I can give back to the community that has given me so much.

It has always been hard for me to ask for help but this is something I am passionate about. I am asking for your support to help me stay at the University I love. Any contribution, no matter how small, goes directly toward my tuition and keeps me one step closer to graduating. If you aren't able to donate, simply sharing this link with your network would mean the world to me.

Thank you for helping me keep my dream alive and for supporting my journey to becoming a Pitt Nurse.