Hello, my name is Laila Van Hook, and I am a rising Junior at North Carolina A&T State University, majoring in Business Management (Entrepreneurship) with a 3.81 GPA.

I chose NCAT because I wanted to finally be in a place where I was not just tolerated, but celebrated. After years of feeling like an outsider in predominantly white schools, where I was often the only Black girl in the room, I promised myself that college would be different. Attending an HBCU has been a life-changing experience. Here, I walk into classrooms where professors look like me, where my peers understand my story without explanation, and where I can grow.

On August 8th 2025, my fall tuition bill was due. I have been working, applying for scholarships, and budgeting carefully, but due to an unexpected gap in funding, I was not able to cover the full amount in time. Without this payment, my ability to stay enrolled is at risk, and I could lose the very place that has become my home and source of growth. This is not just about paying a bill; it’s about keeping my education, my community, and my dreams alive.

My road to college has been a significant challenge. However, college has given me the platform and resources where I can fully blossom and develop who I truly am. It’s where I’ve been able to rebuild my confidence, surround myself with mentors, and take on leadership opportunities that show me my potential is limitless.

From internships with Finastra, StarRez, and BrainSTEM Innovation Co. to serving as Secretary Intern for the Student University Activities Board, I’ve worked hard not just to succeed academically, but also to contribute to my campus community. I’m an Honors College student, a Chancellor’s List Scholar, an internXL student ambassador striving to continue to evolve and develop into the woman God is creating me to be.

Every day that passes makes my situation more uncertain, so I’m reaching out now, humbly and urgently. Your support, whether through a donation or by sharing this campaign, would mean the world to me and will directly support my journey at NCAT and continue building the future I’ve worked so hard for.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading my story and considering helping me during this pivotal moment!

— Laila Van Hook