Hi friends. It feels vulnerable (and a little wild) to write this, but I’ve learned that asking for help is part of the leap—and this is the biggest leap I’ve taken yet.
I’m a 50-year-old screenwriter, mother, and late-blooming academic. I’ve been accepted into my dream grad program, David Lynch’s screenwriting MFA at Maharishi International University in Iowa.
My program starts August 16th—yes, in just under two weeks. I have the plane ticket. I have the room reserved. I have the fire.
What I don’t yet have is the full financial backing to secure my spot.
What I’m asking:
I’m launching this GoFundMe to cover the gap while my student aid is processing.
That includes:
- Paying off a prior $1,400 balance (required before financial aid can be released)
- Travel-related costs and supplies
- Being able to take the weeklong residency off of work and still pay my bills
- Remaining tuition gap after aid disburses
Total need: $3,000–5,000, though every dollar helps. Truly.
Why this matters:
This isn’t just a degree—it’s the next phase of a life I fought like hell to reclaim. I've had so many almosts. I feel like this is the YES.
If you’ve ever seen something in me—my writing, my spirit, my weird brain—and wanted to help me cross the threshold, this is the moment.
Sharing is just as powerful as donating. So is sending encouragement, lighting a candle, or whispering, “Go, Gaaby.”
With love and deep thanks,
Gaaby