Help Katherine, Finish Her First-Gen Journey At USC

Katherine Ordonez is organizing this fundraiser.

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Hello, everyone. My name is Katherine, and I’m reaching out to you today because my USC financial aid package is devastatingly not enough to directly cover my tuition and I am struggling to meet my basic needs.

I’m a first-generation Latina American and college student. I come from a low-income household, youngest of three, and have my fair share of experience with unstable housing. I recently transferred to the University of Southern California from Suffolk County Community College located on Long Island, NY. I still have two more semesters left and expect to graduate in the Fall Semester of 2025, however, my severe lack of funds is currently making registration for next semester extremely challenging. I have been working a mix of full-time, part-time, and multiple jobs since the age of 15, so I am very familiar with hard work, discipline, and dedication. Unfortunately, becoming financially independent at an earlier age than most has made financing my education much more challenging. I’m currently awaiting my appeal for financial aid to be recognized and processed as an independent student and am hoping to keep my education on track. As a 2020 high school graduate and first-generation student, I understand the importance of a quality education and the amount of sacrifices I’m willing to make and have made to be here. In short, I’m not giving up.

I’m seeking support to help pay for my college tuition and basic expenses. Your generosity will help me earn my bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies and add another educated, passionate, community-oriented, and determined first-generation Latina American to the community.

Every contribution, no matter how small, brings me one step closer to helping me pay for my college education. I’m incredibly grateful for any support you can offer, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this page with your network.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for your kindness and support.

With gratitude,

Katherine Ordonez

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