Hi, my name is Magne! I’m a first-generation college student at Wayne State University, majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics. I’m working hard to build a better future for myself and for my family, but right now I’m at risk of not being able to return to school this fall — and I’m asking for help.

I’ve always been independent. I don’t have anyone helping me with tuition or living expenses. I paid for my first semester completely on my own, but by winter, I had run out of money and wasn’t able to enroll. I’m now trying to come back for the fall, but I can’t afford the $7,000 I need for tuition, fees, and school costs. I’ve been working, but it’s just not enough, especially because I’m also supporting myself and sending money back home to Senegal to help pay for my little sister’s therapy. She has Down syndrome, and she means the world to me.

I’ve never asked for help like this before. I’ve always believed I could figure things out on my own. But the truth is, I can’t do this alone anymore. School has always been my way forward; losing that would be devastating. I’m reaching out now because I still believe there’s a way, and maybe with your help, I can keep going.

If you can donate anything at all, thank you from the bottom of my heart. And if you can’t, even just sharing this would help more than you know.

Thank you so much for at least taking the time to read my story.