My name is Austin, and I am a 33-year-old third-year full-time student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln—my dream school. Alongside my studies, I work full-time as a driver for Amazon to support my wife and our five-year-old daughter. Despite my best efforts, I am facing a significant challenge: I have an outstanding balance with the university for my current classes, and I must pay this before I can enroll in summer and fall courses. Without this, I risk falling behind and losing my chance to graduate in Spring 2027.

All of my income goes toward necessities for my family and myself, leaving me without the means to cover this urgent expense. My journey to this point has not been easy. I came from a pretty rough upbringing and barely managed to graduate high school. Becoming a first-generation college student at UNL was a dream I never thought possible, but I worked hard, took classes at Southeast Community College, and was finally accepted in the fall of 2024. Continuing my education means everything to me—it’s my lifeline to a real career and a better future for my family, instead of just getting by with entry-level jobs.

Your support would not only help me stay enrolled at my dream school, but it would also show my daughter that you can achieve anything you put your mind to, no matter your past. I would be deeply grateful for any support you can give, whether it’s a donation or words of encouragement. Thank you for helping me continue my journey and for believing in my dream.