My name is Michael Li. I am a Chinese American member of the LGBTQ+ community with a deep passion for science and caring for others.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology, but I knew my calling was to serve people more directly. That calling led me to enroll in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Loyola University Chicago.

The program is an intensive 16-month, four-semester journey. I successfully completed two semesters (Fall 2024 and Spring 2025) while working at a nonprofit organization supporting children on the autism spectrum. I began my career as a Registered Behavioral Therapist and now serve in a leadership role. Watching children grow into themselves and being part of that journey has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

I was on track to graduate in December 2025 and begin working as a Registered Nurse. However, due to unexpected family responsibilities, I had to take a leave of absence.

I now have only two semesters remaining — Summer 2026 and Fall 2026 — and I will graduate in December 2026. Because this is an accelerated program, I cannot take additional leave. If I am unable to return, I will forfeit the progress I have worked so hard to achieve.

The financial reality is overwhelming:

• $12,963 remaining balance from Spring 2025 (must be paid before I can re-enroll)

• $17,270 for Summer 2026

• $17,270 for Fall 2026

Total needed: $47,503

I have applied for FAFSA and am waiting to see what aid may be available. Last year, I received $6,000 for the Spring semester, but summer semesters are often not covered. I applied for multiple scholarships in 2025 but was not selected.

I have explored every financial option available to me. Unfortunately, the way the current financial aid system is structured creates significant barriers for students pursuing a second degree in nursing.

Because I already earned a bachelor’s degree in biology, federal student aid through the FAFSA system is limited for my Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Federal grants are largely prioritized for first-time undergraduate students, which means students returning to school to enter essential professions like nursing often receive significantly less support.

As a result, many students like me fall into a difficult gap: we are pursuing a high-need healthcare profession, but the funding systems available were not designed with second-degree accelerated programs in mind.

I will continue working while attending school, even though the accelerated pace makes it extremely demanding. I am prepared for the challenges, endless late nights, and putting in hard work — I just need help bridging this financial gap.

Asking for help is not easy for me. I understand that everyone is managing their own responsibilities and financial burdens. If you are unable to donate, I completely understand. Sharing this page would mean just as much.

Even $1 brings me one step closer to becoming the nurse I know I am meant to be. I would be someone who advocates for patients, serves underserved communities, and gives back with compassion.

Thank you for reading my story. Thank you for believing in education, resilience, and the power of community.

With gratitude,

Michael