From Homeless to Ivy League: My Journey

Dear friends, family, and kind supporters,

My name is Michael Sanchez, and I am entering my senior year at Columbia University. This milestone represents years of determination, sacrifice, and perseverance—and I am so close to achieving my dream of graduating.

I never thought I’d make it this far. Before college, I experienced homelessness and have continued to live with physical disabilities, but through resilience and support, I earned my place at Columbia University. Now, I’m entering my senior year, just one step away from graduation.

But right now, I am facing an urgent financial challenge that could prevent me from completing my degree. Despite working hard, applying for scholarships, and receiving financial aid, there remains a significant gap in covering tuition and housing costs for my final year. Without immediate support, I risk being unable to finish what I’ve started.

Your contribution will go directly toward:

• Tuition fees that must be paid soon to ensure I can register and remain enrolled.

• Housing in New York City, which is essential as I finish my studies.

• Books and essentials needed for my coursework and senior projects.

• Medical Cost of weekly physical therapy and medication.

I have worked tirelessly to get to this point, and I am determined to walk across the stage at graduation next spring. I pulled myself from homelessness living on the streets in Colorado and I worked my way to this Ivy League institution.

Some of what I've accomplished over these last two years:

I graduated from Pikes Peak State College in Spring 2025 where I simultaneously earned three Associates Degrees and one Certificate. I'm a proud grateful member of Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society and I have a been an officer in multiple clubs such as Anthropology Club and Zine Club of Pikes Peak. I'm a also the Lead Editor for the Let's Deep It Podcast & Radio Show in New York City.

Every donation, no matter the amount, brings me one step closer to crossing the finish line.

Time is critical, and I need help now to secure my place for this final year. If you cannot give, please consider sharing this campaign with others who may be able to support.

Thank you for believing in me and helping me reach the goal I have been working toward for so long. Together, we can make sure this journey ends in success.

With gratitude and urgency,

Michael Sanchez (GS'26 \ PPSC'25)

Michael with the Students and Alumni of First Generation and Low Income Students (FLI)

CU News story of Michael meeting Mark Hamill

Michael's sister (Madison) and brother (Mark) at Christmas 2024.

-My brother is a Captain in the United States Navy who instructs at the world famous Top Gun. My sister has her Masters degree in Sports Medicine and works at the University of Colorado.-

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