Help Ky Smith Stay in College and Achieve Her Dreams!

Help Ky Smith Stay in College and Achieve Her Dreams!

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Growing up, I’ve always had a love for animals, and I’ve worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality. Along the way, I’ve also found a passion for basketball and cooking, both of which have shaped me into the person I am today. But now, I’m facing a roadblock that I can’t overcome on my own, and I’m reaching out for help in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life.

My name is Ky Smith, and I’m a proud student-athlete at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), where I play basketball, run xc and track&field with pursuing a degree in biology. I have a 3.7 GPA while balancing the demands of being a dual athlete and a full-time student. My goal is to attend veterinary school after graduation and, one day, open my own restaurant—a dream inspired by my culinary arts degree from Howard Community College (#JUCOProduct). But now, my education and basketball career are at risk.

I owe $6,000 to the university, and because of this balance, I’m unable to register for classes for the upcoming semester. I thought my FAFSA would cover the remaining balance of my partial scholarship, but unfortunately, that isn’t the case. I’ve exhausted all my options, even speaking with my coaches, but I’ve reached a point where I have to put my pride aside and ask for help.

This is more than just about money. It’s about continuing my journey to achieve my dreams. I’ve worked so hard to get to this point. I’ve faced challenges before—balancing athletics, academics, and a part-time job—but I’ve always found a way to push through. Now, I’m asking for your help to push through this hurdle.

If I’m unable to continue my education, I’ll pivot to following another dream of mine: opening a food truck to share my love of cooking with the world. While that’s a beautiful goal, I’m not ready to give up on basketball or my veterinary aspirations just yet. The funds raised will go directly toward paying my university balance for the fall and spring semesters, allowing me to stay on track with my education, continue playing the sport I love, and keep moving forward toward my dreams.

To everyone reading this: anything helps. Whether it’s a donation, sharing this campaign with your network, or even just sending words of encouragement—your support means the world to me. Thank you for helping me believe that dreams are still worth fighting for.

Let’s keep this journey alive. Thank you for being part of my story.

With love and gratitude,


Ky Smith