My name is Lluvia Santiago, and I’m a first-year college student from the southwest side of Chicago. I come from a low-income family with an annual income of less than $20,000. I’ve always dreamed of pursuing higher education to better my life, pursue my passions, and ultimately help others with my career, but my financial situation has made this dream extremely difficult.

I’m currently majoring in Philosophy, Theology, and Anthropology at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. My long-term goal is to apply what I learn toward public service, law, and congressional work, using knowledge and compassion to make education and justice more accessible for others like me.

Unfortunately, my out-of-state tuition is far beyond what I can afford. I’ve taken out small federal loans, and I work two jobs to make payments; I’ll be starting a remote position in November as well. Even so, I'm afraid they are just not enough. Almost everything I earn goes directly toward tuition. Despite my best efforts, the costs are overwhelming, and I’m at risk of not being able to continue my studies this year.

I’m not looking for luxury or comfort, only the means to cover this academic year so that I can transfer to a more affordable college back home in Illinois and continue working toward my degree without burdening my family with debt.

If you’re able to help, your support would mean the world to me. Every contribution, big or small, is a step closer to stability and to continuing the education I’ve worked so hard to begin.

Thank you all sincerely for taking the time to read my story.

With gratitude,

Lluvia Santiago