First, I would like to say thank you for taking the time to read my story. I am greatly appreciative. 

My name is Sinae, and I am a student at San Francisco State University. I was born in South Korea and left everything behind to chase my goal in the United States. I'd want to tell you about my story.

Back in 2018, My father had a stroke shortly after I started university and passed away three years later. He didn't regain consciousness after being in a coma for three years. It was shocking and I realized that life is too short and I needed to figure out what I truly wanted to achieve with my life.

I had the opportunity to attend a speech by an employee at the Youtube headquarters in the United States three months after my father passed away, and I was inspired by that speech. Because of my poor background, I thought that I couldn't succeed. But during our one-on-one meeting, he said to me, "Why not you?". I was deeply inspired by the positive energy and an open mind that acknowledged my infinite potential. That’s my motivation to keep moving forward and understanding that I also have the capacity to keep going and be successful whatever I am doing. It was the first time that someone acknowledged my ability.

After then, I made a big decision to transfer to SFSU, and I wanted to explore a new world and silicon valley’s culture. I was scared to challenge the new world however I believed that this was what I truly wanted to do.!

In my first semester after transferring, I became the leader of Developer Student Clubs which is represented by Google Developers. I learned about active leadership by managing the club and growing with my mentors and their advice at Google.  I continued my efforts by volunteering for a non-profit organization and working on a COVID-19-related app development project. Through these diverse experiences, I have resolved to become a person who leads an active lifestyle and has a positive impact on our society. After graduation, I hope to continue looking for activities that benefit society.

However, my family's financial status has deteriorated since the COVID-19 pandemic. They have supported me, but we are no longer able to handle it. So I'm currently in a situation where I have to give up education.

In contrast to other wealthy students, I worked hard in a difficult economic circumstance. Even though I was sick, I did not go to the doctor and restricted myself from eating my favorite foods in order to save money on living expenses. I had not expected that COVID-19 would force me to abandon my dreams.

According to the official website of SFSU, I need to spend $30,652 per year. However, because I am an international student, I must pay an additional tuition price of $396 per unit. I still have four semesters left, therefore I'm asking $60,000 in financial aid for graduation. This significant amount of money can cover tuition and living expenses.

The Wright brothers succeeded in their first flight that changed human history after 805 attempts. I also want to pursue my dream without giving up. I want to show the world that everyone, regardless of economic background or poor background, can achieve their dreams if they have the determination to make them a reality.

If I graduate from college with your support, get a job, and make money, and I'm willing to repay all of your help when I am able to contribute to society. As you have supported me, I will also return your support to our society.

I appreciate anything. Even a dollar gets me closer to completing my goal; it means so much to me. Thank you so much in advance for even considering to help!