My Story

My name is Isabella Perez, and I am a dedicated third-year student at the University of Arizona with a 4.0 GPA, pursuing dual degrees in Psychological Science and Spanish with a minor in Religious Studies. As a member of the Honors College, I have earned Dean's List recognition in my freshman year and President's List my sophomore year. I have served as a Teaching Assistant for Math 113, and as a preceptor for a Psychology of Religion class, where I prepared content and held office hours for fellow students.

As a Christian woman of faith, I am passionate about helping others, particularly children struggling with mental health issues. My thesis focuses on creating a bilingual children's book addressing mental health stigmas in Latinx communities.

The Crisis That Changed Everything

Just 48 hours before my summer research program was set to begin, I received devastating news that would completely derail my carefully planned academic and financial path. The federal government suddenly pulled a $6,800 grant that I had been awarded for a summer 2025 diversity research initiative. This grant was supposed to cover my rent, living expenses, and tuition for the three-month program - expenses I had already committed to and budgeted around.

With no warning and no alternative funding offered, I was forced to use my fall semester savings to cover the summer expenses, leaving me in a precarious financial situation for the upcoming academic year.

The Financial Perfect Storm

As if losing the grant wasn't challenging enough, I recently discovered that my FAFSA aid will be reduced by $8,000 simply because I turned 25 years old - a change I was never made aware of and certainly hadn't budgeted for. My mother attempted to secure a Parent PLUS loan, but was informed that FAFSA doesn't allow this option once a student reaches 25.

My current situation:

Why This Matters Now

I have already made commitments to study in Barcelona this fall to advance my Spanish language skills and work on my thesis - an opportunity that will enhance my ability to serve Spanish-speaking communities dealing with mental health challenges. The timing is critical, as deferring would mean losing this placement and potentially delaying my graduation.

Three years ago, I lost my father to a heart attack, and my mother has limited financial resources to help. I have worked incredibly hard to maintain my academic excellence while supporting myself, but this unexpected financial crisis threatens to derail everything I've worked toward.

A Promise to Pay It Forward

I have always believed in the power of community and faith to overcome challenges. If you can provide any assistance to help me through this difficult situation, I promise to pay it forward to others in need. Your generosity will not only help me complete my education but will enable me to serve others throughout my career.

Thank you for considering supporting my educational journey. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me closer to my goal of serving children and families who need mental health resources the most.