Hello, my name is Catashe Rodrigues. I’m a determined and hopeful student who took a gap year after my freshman year at Hunter College, which unintentionally extended to two years due to financial hardship.

During my first year, my stepfather was able to cover tuition out-of-pocket. However, once his own children began college, his financial responsibilities shifted. At just 18, I made the difficult decision to withdraw, not wanting to become an additional financial burden on my family.

Now, at 21, I’m eager to return to college and continue pursuing a better life for myself and for my mother, who brought me to America when I was 16 with the hope of a brighter future. I've recently been accepted to two colleges and even sat for an exam in hopes of earning a $1,000 scholarship ( which I won). Despite maintaining a 3.3 GPA during my freshman year, I was informed I don't qualify for financial aid. While our household income may seem sufficient on paper, the reality is different—I do not benefit directly, as my stepfather's financial obligations are committed to supporting his biological children’s education.

During my visit to the financial aid office, the stress and hopelessness of the situation unexpectedly led to a panic attack—something I regret, especially knowing how it may have affected the advisor assisting me.

Your support would not just help me return to school, it would help shape a future Nurse who is deeply committed to caring for others, both physically and spiritually. My faith has grown tremendously since moving to the U.S., and I’ve witnessed firsthand how compassion, prayer, and kindness can uplift others. I carry that positive spirit with me and hope to share it with every patient I serve in the future.

If you need any documentation or verification that your donation is going directly toward my education, I am fully prepared to provide it. Thank you so much for considering my story and my journey. Your support truly means the world to me.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Catashe Rodrigues.