Hi, my name is Amber Austin, and I’m a student at the University of Virginia majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience. I’m especially grateful to be at UVA because it’s home to the major of my dreams — a program that isn’t found at most universities. I chose this path because I want to use my knowledge one day to save lives and make a profound difference in healthcare.

Getting to UVA has not been easy. In high school, I was diagnosed with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) during the pandemic, which made almost every day a physical and mental challenge. Even through doctors’ visits, hospital stays, and managing my health, I worked so hard to keep my grades up and fight for my dream of attending college. I am proud that despite these struggles, I made it to UVA. Every step of the way has taken hard work, resilience, and a mountain of faith, but UVA has been worth it.

Since arriving, I’ve poured myself into the UVA community with everything I have. I serve as an Orientation Leader, welcoming new students and helping them find their footing during one of the most important transitions of their lives. I volunteer at UVA Health Hospital, supporting patients and families during critical and vulnerable moments. As a new Resident Advisor, I work to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive living environment where students feel at home. I’ve also stayed committed to Chi Alpha (Christian fellowship), CavsCare, and the Daniel Hale Williams Pre-Health Honor Society, where I grow alongside peers who share my passion for service. Every role I’ve taken on has been an opportunity not just to belong, but to give back — to make UVA better for others, just as it has been transformative for me.

Unfortunately, I am now facing an urgent financial challenge that is putting my education at risk. At this time, I owe about $10,000 for next semester and need the money to continue my education. This situation has caused me a great deal of stress and worry, because receiving an education is an honor and a privilege that I do not take lightly. I love being here and want nothing more than to continue my journey at UVA.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward covering my tuition so I can remain enrolled, continue my studies in Behavioral Neuroscience, and keep working toward my goal of becoming a doctor. If you aren’t able to donate, sharing this campaign would mean so much to me.

Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story, for believing in me, for supporting me in this difficult moment, and for helping me keep building the future I’ve worked so hard for.

With sincere love and gratitude,

Amber Austin