My name is Angela Wright, and I am currently working toward my bachelor’s degree in psychology. I am two semesters away from completing my program, with plans to graduate in Fall 2027. I am reaching out to the community because a recent financial setback now threatens my ability to stay enrolled.

I was notified that I no longer qualify for subsidized or unsubsidized federal student loans. This leaves me with only two options, private loans or paying entirely out of pocket, neither of which is financially possible for me. To remain enrolled for the upcoming term, I must pay at least $4,000 by January 6.

In total, I will need to raise approximately $21,000 to finish my degree.

I am also navigating this during a time of major changes to the public education landscape. Recent shifts at the federal level, including pauses and new limits on FAFSA and federal loan availability, are impacting students like me in real time. These new loan caps are preventing me from finishing college and pursuing a career in social work and family counseling. Fields where there are already critical shortages. Please do not let me fall through the cracks.

I have been doing social work for seven years and currently work for a nonprofit organization. My goal is to continue this path by becoming a licensed family counselor, with a completed psychology degree. At a moment when the mental health professional shortage is making it incredibly hard for families to get support, finishing my education would allow me to serve in a way that is deeply needed. Any help I receive is a direct investment in community care and long-term impact.

While these numbers feel overwhelming, I don’t believe this situation is hopeless. I believe in community, and in what can happen when people come together around something meaningful.

Returning to school was never something I imagined would be possible for me. I am only the second person in my family to pursue a college degree, and with continued support, I would be the first to graduate with honors. Being able to return to my community with a degree in an equity-focused, care-based profession, one not driven by corporate profit means more to me than I can fully express.

I take this opportunity seriously. I work full-time, complete my coursework on time, and stay committed even when it’s difficult. I currently hold a 3.68 GPA and have a personal goal of graduating with honors. For me, this degree represents community, care based professions, and healthier and more equal America.

I chose psychology because mental health affects every part of life, especially families. I want to help give the tools, language, and support needed to heal. I want to help create spaces where people feel safe enough to be honest, to come alive, and to imagine something better for themselves.

If you feel able to support me, please know that your contribution helps me stay enrolled and keep moving forward. If giving isn’t possible, sharing this page also makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for believing in education, mental health, care-based professions, and the power of community support.