Help Judea Return to Howard University

Story

Help Judea Return to Howard University Hi everyone, My name is Judea Marvin, and I’m a first-generation college student from Charlotte, NC, currently an upcoming sophomore Legal Communications major at Howard University. I’m also an Air Force ROTC cadet, working toward my dream of becoming a JAG officer after graduation. Howard has become so much more than just a school for me — it’s my second home. It’s where I’ve grown, thrived, and found my purpose. But right now, that dream is at risk. I’m humbly asking for your help to raise $15,000 by July 31st so I can return for the 2025–2026 academic year. ⸻ Why I’m Asking for Help Before I arrived at Howard, I was misinformed by a financial aid staff member who assured me that I wouldn’t be held back from registering or continuing my education, even with an outstanding balance. I believed that I had time to figure it out, especially since I had a plan in place through ROTC and expected future scholarships to help cover my costs. Unfortunately, I’ve now been told there are no longer any temporary exceptions. A hold has been placed on my account due to my current balance, and unless I can pay it off, I won’t be able to register for classes or return in the fall. This has been devastating to hear. I’ve worked so hard to get here — advocating for Howard students at the White House, staying committed in my ROTC training, and staying focused on my studies, finishing with all A’s — and it’s heartbreaking to think that a lack of funds could take it all away. ⸻ My Family Situation I live with my mom, who has been my rock. She’s a single parent, battling fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, and still works full-time to support me. We’ve applied for loans, including the Parent PLUS loan, which was denied. My dad is not in my life or supporting us financially. We’ve exhausted all immediate options. Over the summer, I’ve been actively applying to external scholarships and looking into student loans. My ROTC scholarship won’t activate until sophomore year, so this summer was supposed to be about bridge funding — but now, time is running out. ⸻ Why This Matters So Much Howard has given me more than just an education — it’s given me a sense of belonging, opportunity, and direction. My ROTC detachment is like family to me. I’ve made meaningful connections that I don’t think I could replicate anywhere else. The thought of walking away from everything I’ve worked for, simply because of finances, has left me emotionally drained and deeply anxious. I truly believe I was meant to be at Howard. I’m determined to continue pursuing my degree, commission as a JAG officer with DET 130, and one day serve and protect others through the law. But I need help to stay on this path. ⸻ How You Can Help Any amount you give will go directly toward lifting my account hold and covering my tuition balance. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this with someone who can means the world to me. $5, $10, $50 — anything helps. Please help me stay at the university I love, with the ROTC program I’m dedicated to, so I can continue working toward my dreams. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. — Judea Marvin