Help Nathaniel finish pay for his Education.

Help Me Complete My Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration

Hello everyone,

My name is Nathaniel Brown and I am an international student from Trinidad and Tobago, currently pursing my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. My dream has always been to create a space in business that allows me to empower youth through sport. This degree is just one of the steps on my journey to achieving this dream.

I recently earned my Associate’s Degree from Kankakee Community College becoming the first person in my family to do so. I was fortunate, through my performance as a soccer player at the high school level, to earn an athletic scholarship at Kankakee which covered most of my school expenses. Additionally I was also able to find on-campus work, working the maximum allowed 19 hours a week to meet all my financial obligations. It was no easy feat balancing my studies, soccer and work obligations, but I persevered despite all odds, and I’m immensely proud of my successes thus far.

Now, I’m determined to get one step closer to my dream by completing my Bachelor’s Degree at North American University. I’ve already been accepted, won a partial academic scholarship, was advised that I had secured a sport scholarship, and I am currently enrolled in classes.

Life has unfortunately presented me with some tough, life-changing events over the years. The passing of my mother a few years ago really tested my faith and my tenacity. She was always my number one supporter emotionally, financially and otherwise - in the way only a mother can be. When I lost her, I began to question my ability to achieve my dream. However, I nurtured my belief in my self and with the support of my family I have endured.

I’m now faced with yet another significant challenge. My ability to finance the pursuit of my Bachelor’s Degree is now under threat as I have been unable to make the monthly payments of USD $2075 per month to the University. My enrollment in the program is now at risk. The tuition cost came as a surprise, as it is higher than the amount discussed with a representative of the University prior to my enrollment.

I was recruited to the University by the soccer coach as I was on a soccer scholarship at my previous school. All potential costs were discussed with the coach and my family and I were advised that after the scholarship money was awarded and applied we would have to make up a shortfall of around $4,000 USD per semester for all expenses, including room and board.

It was also agreed that I would be offered on-campus employment which would significantly contribute to covering my financial obligations.

Now at school and fully enrolled on campus since August, I have been told by the university administration that I was only awarded an academic scholarship because I had good grades and that there was no athletic scholarship to be applied from the Men’s Soccer Program. This academic scholarship which only covers a part of my school bill, unfortunately still leaves me with a $8,300 USD per semester debt - over twice the amount that I had originally catered to pay. Additionally, the on-campus employment opportunity never materialized without explanation.

I’m now at risk of being kicked out of classes and I am a long way from home with very few options to manage the situation. My dad, who is my only parent, is back home and currently not financially able to provide the required funds. He tries to help as much as possible but with the steep currency exchange rate the amount that he can contribute seems almost insignificant.

Every dollar raised will go directly to the University to pay my tuition fees.

This journey means the world to me, not only because I’ve worked so hard towards my dream, but also because it represents hope for my future and my family’s future. I’m committed to doing everything I can to finish my degree and make a difference in my community back home.

Any contribution, big or small, will bring me one step closer to my goal. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign with your friends and family would also mean a lot to me.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support. Together, we can make this dream a reality.

With gratitude,

Nathaniel Brown