I am Ariane, a mother raising my 8-year-old child and the breadwinner for my family. For 17 years, I have worked, studied, and supported myself while building a better future for us. Along the way, I earned my Criminal Justice degree from Guam Community College, where I served in student government and later as President of the Student Government Association. I also earned my Associate's Degree in Paralegal Law Studies from Truckee Meadows Community College, completed an HR Management certificate from Cornell University, became a Nevada Notary Public, and now work as a legal assistant/paralegal in Reno. I am now just four classes away from graduating in December 2026 with my Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in Criminal Justice from the University of Nevada, Reno. My goal after graduation is to continue growing in the legal field and eventually take the Advanced Certified Paralegal exam. Balancing school, working, parenting, and helping support my family has not been easy, but I have kept going because finishing this degree means so much to me, my husband, my son, and family.

Unexpected expenses and changes in financial aid have made it very difficult for me to reach that December 2026 graduation goal. UNR awarded me a $1,000 grant, but I still have about $4,767.08 in remaining tuition, textbook, and school material costs. I have reached the limit of my federal aid and have also explored private loans, but I have been unable to qualify. Asking for help is not typical for me, and I have done everything I can to avoid this. I have exhausted every avenue available to me, and I cannot cover these costs on my own. I am not giving up. I am simply asking for help so financial hardship does not stop me when I am this close to the finish line.

Helping others has always been important to me. I serve as a board member at my child's school, and through my experience in the legal field, I have volunteered my time helping people better understand court paperwork and procedures when they feel overwhelmed. If you are able to support my fundraiser, your generosity will help me stay enrolled, complete my last four classes, and graduate in December 2026. If you cannot donate, sharing my fundraiser would also mean so much. Thank you for reading my story, believing in me, and helping my family take this final step forward.