Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out because I’m about to reach a huge milestone in my life - graduating from university. It’s something I’ve worked towards for years, and despite the challenges along the way, I’ve finally made it.

Unfortunately, attending my own graduation isn’t as straightforward as I’d hoped. After booking my place, I found out that the cost of hiring a gown and arranging official photos - both handled through the same provider - is more than I earn in an entire month.

Throughout university, I’ve been working a zero-hour contract job as my main source of income. I’ve tried consistently to secure a full-time position, but haven’t had any luck so far. On average, I have around £50 a month for food and essentials.

Because of my financial situation, I’ve had to miss out on a lot of what people call the “typical university experience” - social events, societies, and nights out - just to make ends meet. My maintenance loan went entirely toward accommodation, leaving very little for anything else.

However, graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime moment and is something I’ve worked incredibly hard for, and something I don’t want to miss. It’s not just about the ceremony, but about celebrating the journey, marking the achievement, and having something tangible to look back on, like photos in my gown and photos of me in my gown with my parents.

I’m asking for help to cover the cost of my graduation gown and photos so I can attend and fully take part in this important day.

Anything you can give - no matter how small - would mean so much to me. And if you’re not able to donate, sharing this page would help more than you know.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping me celebrate this milestone