Let me just start by saying that I realize the timing of this campaign couldn't be worse. Black Lives Matter, COVID, and the recession are all such huge and important global issues that my campaign feels secondary. I recognize that, but I unfortunately do not have the luxury of time and need your help.
Who am I? I am 23 years old and an immigrant from Italy. The only way I can stay in the country is to get a job (the global pandemic has eliminated that possibility), marry an American (I’m trying!), or attend graduate school. Today I am asking you to help me with this.
I am desperately trying to continue my studies in the United States – a place I have called home for five years now. Leaving America, a place I came to at the age of eighteen to pursue my dreams, would break my heart and spirit. I left behind my own culture, language, family and friends, all in the name of my dreams, in the hopes of changing my life and that of my family. In Italy, we are ravaged by an economic crisis and politicians who do not know how to create jobs and opportunities for the youth, causing a lot of young adults to migrate elsewhere. Not only that, but returning to Italy now would dramatically increase my exposure to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, with the added bonus of an elevated airfare cost and move-out fares. Studying here in America, truly is my only hope to turn my life around.
For years I have diligently been saving my money and preparing for this moment: I have taken financial courses, limited all non-essential expenses, and reduced all bills and maintenance fees to the bare minimum. I am entirely responsible for all my rent, groceries, expenses and maintenance bills – a huge weight on my shoulders when it comes to paying for a graduate program. On top of that, as an immigrant, I not qualify for loans, having to pay almost double what American citizens pay for tuition. I also am required to show proof of funds to cover an entire school year of expenses.
As someone whose entire work-ethic revolves around hard work, discipline, no-excuses and sacrifice, I am not comfortable asking for help. Yet, I have exhausted all of my options and life has brought me to this point of no return. I kindly ask you to please give me a chance, to please lend me a helping hand in trying make the seemingly impossible possible, and to gift me with the opportunity to pursue my dreams.
The Rhode Island College has been my graduate school of choice for the Fall 2020. I have saved a total of $12,000 but that is money I need to live on to afford rent and groceries, given I cannot legally work outside of school. To attend, I need to show them proof of access to $25,000. I hope you will help me make this dream come true.
Who am I? I am 23 years old and an immigrant from Italy. The only way I can stay in the country is to get a job (the global pandemic has eliminated that possibility), marry an American (I’m trying!), or attend graduate school. Today I am asking you to help me with this.
I am desperately trying to continue my studies in the United States – a place I have called home for five years now. Leaving America, a place I came to at the age of eighteen to pursue my dreams, would break my heart and spirit. I left behind my own culture, language, family and friends, all in the name of my dreams, in the hopes of changing my life and that of my family. In Italy, we are ravaged by an economic crisis and politicians who do not know how to create jobs and opportunities for the youth, causing a lot of young adults to migrate elsewhere. Not only that, but returning to Italy now would dramatically increase my exposure to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, with the added bonus of an elevated airfare cost and move-out fares. Studying here in America, truly is my only hope to turn my life around.
For years I have diligently been saving my money and preparing for this moment: I have taken financial courses, limited all non-essential expenses, and reduced all bills and maintenance fees to the bare minimum. I am entirely responsible for all my rent, groceries, expenses and maintenance bills – a huge weight on my shoulders when it comes to paying for a graduate program. On top of that, as an immigrant, I not qualify for loans, having to pay almost double what American citizens pay for tuition. I also am required to show proof of funds to cover an entire school year of expenses.
As someone whose entire work-ethic revolves around hard work, discipline, no-excuses and sacrifice, I am not comfortable asking for help. Yet, I have exhausted all of my options and life has brought me to this point of no return. I kindly ask you to please give me a chance, to please lend me a helping hand in trying make the seemingly impossible possible, and to gift me with the opportunity to pursue my dreams.
The Rhode Island College has been my graduate school of choice for the Fall 2020. I have saved a total of $12,000 but that is money I need to live on to afford rent and groceries, given I cannot legally work outside of school. To attend, I need to show them proof of access to $25,000. I hope you will help me make this dream come true.
Organizer
Lorenzo Condemi
Organizer
Providence, RI