Help Dag get to Grad School

Hi everyone!

My name is Dagmawe Berhanu, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been accepted into the Helen Zell Writers’ Program at the University of Michigan, where I’ll be pursuing my MFA in Creative Writing this fall.

This moment is nothing short of a miracle. As a first-generation, Black, non-binary college student, a child of refugees, a recovering addict, and someone who returned to school in their mid-twenties after years of struggle, I never imagined I’d be here. But thanks to the strength of my community, my mentors, and my own hard-fought growth, I’m stepping into this next chapter with hope—and a little fear.

Though I'm lucky enough for the program to be fully funded, I’m raising $6,000 overall to cover moving and relocation costs as I prepare to leave Philadelphia and settle into Ann Arbor. These funds will go toward:

$3,000 for first month’s rent + security deposit

$3,000 for moving costs (U-Haul, movers, purchasing furniture and supplies, etc.)

If you’re able to contribute, share, or simply send encouragement, I’d be deeply grateful. Your support means the world and will help me build a new beginning grounded in creativity, healing, and community.

With love and gratitude,

Dag