My parents have sacrificed so much to give me opportunities they never had, which is why attending a prestigious university has always felt like both a privilege and a responsibility. Throughout my time at  Immaculata La Salle high school, I challenged myself with 13 AP courses, maintained a strong GPA, earned academic and art awards (from UM and a Congress Representative), and took on leadership roles, including serving as President of the National Science Honor Society. Making my family proud through my hard work has always meant everything to me.

However, that sense of accomplishment has been overshadowed by the cost of attending the University of Florida (a school I’ve always dreamed of attending).

My family has faced challenges before. Recently, though, we’ve encountered a financial hardship we cannot overcome alone. My mom needed surgery that was not covered by insurance (although they told us it would be), and now my family is carrying that burden. With my mom and dad working, every dollar we have is going toward medical expenses.

The University of Florida is the best and cheapest fit for my academic goals in STEM, and while I was accepted into other schools with scholarship, they are not financially realistic options or don't have resources like a hospital on campus necessary for my career path. Even with aid, the cost of attending UF is still more than my family can manage right now. It’s will be twenty thousand dollars each year, for 4 years, and yet is considered one of the least expensive options for my education.

Support toward my education would allow me to pursue my goal of becoming a pharmacologist or radiologist without placing further strain on my family, especially as I plan for the financial demands of graduate school. Most importantly, it would ease the burden on my parents, who have already sacrificed so much for me.

Any help, whether through sharing or donating, would bring me closer to becoming the first doctor in my family. Your support would mean everything to us.