My name is Satta Sheriff, and I am a second-year MBA student at William & Mary. As a first-generation college student, I am the first in my family to reach this level of higher education. No female in my family has ever made it to college, so completing this program is not only my dream but also a dream for my family and community, who have never had the opportunity to reach this far.

My journey has not been easy. During my first year in the program, I faced a serious health challenge that forced me to take a medical leave. With support from the Business School and William & Mary, I was able to recover, return to school, and rebuild my GPA to maintain my tuition scholarship.

Now, I am facing a financial crisis that threatens to end my education before I can finish. There is a hold of $15,230 on my student account that must be cleared before I can register for my 2nd year classes. I have worked on campus, taken summer jobs, and made sacrifices to cover my living expenses and stay enrolled. Still, I have fallen short, and as we enter the second week of classes, I am unable to register for my second year. I do not want to drop out; I have come too far, and my family and nonprofit work are depending on me. I want to complete this program for my late mother and my siblings, whose lives have been deeply affected by the tragedies in our family.

This is why I am reaching out for help. With your support, I can clear my balance, register for classes, and continue working toward completing my MBA. Any amount, no matter how small, will bring me one step closer to achieving this dream and enable me to pay it forward to others who need hope.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for considering supporting me. Your kindness will not only change my life but also inspire many others who will be touched by this journey.

With gratitude,

Satta Sheriff