Help educate this remarkable person

My name is Patreila Lawrence. I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica. I have always been a very involved student, participating and volunteering in many ways. In high school I was a Prefect, a Peer Counselor, President of the Debate Club, Vice President of the Student Counsel and Secretary of the Inter School Christian Fellowship. Currently, I attend Monroe College in New Rochelle, New York. My activities along with my grades and application essay are what I believe secured my spot at Monroe College. Many people may wonder why I decided to attend Monroe rather than a college in my own country. The answer is fairly simple. Education is power. That is precisely why I chose to attend college in The States as my avenue to assist my fellow men. After being exposed to America’s justice system, I realize even more how much my country lacks true justice for its people. It is my American education that will give me the tools to change this dynamic. Once I become a lawyer, I will work with the assistance of politicians and other individuals in power in Jamaica to change and to add laws that will ensure that all Jamaicans are treated more equitably. I also will work to earn funds to invest in companies that will create more job opportunities in Jamaica. Finally, I plan to create scholarships for students like me who aspire but need just a bit of help to make their dreams a reality.

I plan make Jamaica greater than it is today by becoming a lawyer. We have so many talented, creative, and intelligent individuals on our small island who simply need the opportunity and the resources to truly shine. The hope that one day I will be able to offer needed resources and help is one is one of many factors that keeps me motivated and taking advantage of as many opportunities as possible at Monroe. I am currently in my second year where I am majoring in Criminal Justice. I have been on the President’s List each semester. I am currently the Vice President of the Debate Society. When I first attended Monroe, they didn’t have a debate society. However, I am very passionate about debating and public speaking, so my friend and I obtained the permission from the right individuals, completed the paper work together and recruited members. Today Monroe College has a Debate Club.

I also work as an Academic Mentor in the Academic Center. I tutor students in English courses as well as any other Criminal Justice related courses. I should graduate in June 2019, and by then I plan to add a host of other activities and honors to my list of experiences. I strive to be the best I can be. My mother often tells me that I should give myself a break. When she says this, she means that I should not feel disappointed when I don’t receive the highest grade possible. However, it is very difficult for me to not be a bit disappointed in myself when I receive, for example a B. So, I work hard, not giving my parents or myself a reason to be disappointed. Unfortunately, changes in my financial situation could lead to a great disappointment.

Monroe College’s tuition fluctuates based on the dorm room in which one is placed. Prior to this year, my cousin helped my parents financially, so much of my tuition could be paid, but she passed away earlier this year, so my family is now facing the costs of my attending Monroe on its own.  Currently my tuition for the upcoming fall semester is $12,225. I already owe $7,000 on this past spring semester’s tuition. I am hoping that people will be inspired by my drive and purpose to invest in my education and me.

My goal is to raise $7,000 for last semester, as well as $7,000 for each remaining semester. I currently have remaining three semesters at Monroe College (Yes, I will graduate early because I am taking extra classes each semester in order to earn my degree early). Any help I receive will be of great help to my parents, who are sacrificing everything to make my dream possible. The funds will also allow me to focus on being a driving force for positive change without being afraid that I cannot return to school due to late or insufficient payments. Please know that any help will be greatly appreciated and will not be in vain. Most importantly, the funds will ultimately help the Jamaicans whom I plan to serve once I earn my law degree.