I write this post with a hopeful heart. Those who know me know that a post such as this is the last thing I would want to do. I haven’t uploaded an update for my friends and family for a considerable amount of time (disregarding my hurricane post) and I take full responsibility for my lack of communication. However, I’ll be completely candid, this law school journey has been eye-opening, humbling, and ridiculously difficult. I’ve always prided myself for being as transparent as possible and respect those who bravely ask for help when need be because it’s not easy. I am lucky enough to have been born in an age where I (and anyone in a similar position) can ask for help without feeling like a burden because as a society we have built, or for lack of better words, developed and fostered, a true community that recognizes and supports the needs of others which is unbelievably commendable and truly wonderful. Beyond words really.

I am also extremely blessed to have been born into a family who valiantly supports and fights for my dreams and I can’t thank them enough but I couldn’t possibly ask them for this as they’ve done so much for me already. This journey has meant everything to me but dreams aren’t cheap. As much as it pains me, I’m reaching out to my community because as it turns out my dream costs more than just grit and if determination was currency, by God we’d have it all, but the sad truth is dreams aren’t free and that’s a hard pill to swallow. I graduate this May with my Juris Doctor in Law and have established I plan to take the Florida Bar Exam in July rather than February. If all goes well, once I’m barred I plan to specialize in Family Law. There’s a saying in the law school community and I hope it resonates. The saying goes as follows, “Criminal law is for bad people at their best. Family law is for good people at their worst.” I wouldn’t say this phrase is fact, but I can say based off of experience it’s pretty damn close and at their most vulnerable people deserve lawyers they can trust. A lawyer who gets it which is exactly the role I aim to fulfill. In order for me to register and pass the Bar (that crazy stressful exam lawyers have to pass to get licensed) I have to cover bar prep costs comprising of two separate programs which totals roughly $3,300, a registration fee of $600 to take the exam, and hotel/shelter fees which averages approximately $400 for the duration of the 3 day exam. *insert mind blowing emoji*

I am reluctant to admit this post is to ask for financial help. I realize that unless you know someone in law school there’s no reason you’d understand the minute details of the process and why would you? I get it. However, if you’re not familiar, the process to obtain a law degree isn’t only strenuous, but extremely expensive which is a sensitive aspect for many of us students. Many students, including myself, frequently dismiss the financial struggles of law school and often see ourselves as a heavy burden despite the pride we feel for our aspirations. I acknowledge that not everyone views the legal field in a positive light, but those of us pursuing a legal education often face negative backlash because of the career we chose. We recognize the animosity stems from the extensive, unacceptable , and irreconcilable experiences endured by those near and dear to us. Believe me, I have personally lived these stories and have felt those consequences.

I have so much I want to say and do in this world and I wish I could do so without ever asking for financial aid but unfortunately my government loans do not cover the most important aspect of the process. I receive government aid for my tuition and materials but no matter how tightly I budget, affording prep courses and the exam itself is impossible with the amount I’ve been awarded. I know this post may only reach a limited audience and I respect everyone’s financial situation. We all face our own obstacles and life never takes a day off. We all wish it would though!

If anything I hope this post highlights the struggles of higher education and the obstacles many students face no matter what path they are on. As much as I feel the need to explain myself, I don’t think it’s necessary. This is a field that needs and practically begs for, honest, driven, young minds yearning for a chance to make a positive impact in the world. All I ask is if you are willing and capable, to donate to the link below to help me make a difference in the world cause Lord knows we need it! Any amount makes a difference and I am eternally grateful for whatever support you are able to provide. Monetary or not.

I’ll end my Ted Talk with a message I wrote on my mirror years ago that I still strongly believe in… “The fire we exist in is our power to turn fear into fuel. We are and worth everything we believe ourselves to be.” I thank everyone for their unyielding support. I promise this dream is worth it. Hopefully, the next time I see most of you I’ll be "Vittoria Cira J.D." and to say the least...the world isn’t ready for the waves I plan to make. Lots of love.