Help Isabella Stay in College

My name is Isabella, and I’m a freshman at St. John’s University, majoring in Psychology. Getting here hasn’t been easy. I grew up in a home filled with instability and abuse. My mother struggles with mental illness, and my father—whom I currently live with, along with my younger sister—does not support my decision to attend college. He would prefer that I work to help pay rent and cover my own expenses. Despite these challenges, I’ve remained focused on protecting my sister and building a better future for both of us. My experiences inspired me to study Psychology, with the dream of becoming a family lawyer. I want to help children who are living through situations like mine—or even worse. I know how much it means to have someone stand by you, and I want to be that person for others. My goal is to break the cycle and create a new path, not just for myself, but for my sister as well.

I’m currently seeking help to cover the remaining balance of my tuition and books before the deadline of September 12, 2025. I’ve been blessed with support from a few mentors, my high school football coach, who attended orientation with me, my sister’s boyfriend’s mom, who has worked tirelessly with the financial aid office to help me apply for scholarships and loans, and my high school college advisor. Unfortunately, the aid I’ve received still isn’t enough to cover everything.

Any support you can give will help me stay in school and move closer to my dream of helping children and families. No amount is too small, and every bit truly makes a difference. Thank you so much for helping me to build a brighter future for myself, my sister, and the children I hope to help one day.