Hi! My name is Maria Tavares, and I’m from Aguascalientes, Mexico. I’m currently pursuing a Master of Education in Intellectual Disability and Autism at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City — one of the world’s top institutions in psychology and education. I’m proud to share that I am the only Latina and only Mexican student in this highly competitive and unique program.

This master’s degree is more than an academic dream — it’s a mission I’ve carried since I was a teenager. I’ve spent years working with children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and I’ve seen firsthand how urgently we need specialized professionals, especially in Latin America.

In Mexico, many children on the autism spectrum go undiagnosed, misunderstood, or misdirected — not because families or educators don’t care, but because the system lacks the training, resources, and up-to-date knowledge to support them. There are very few professionals trained in current, evidence-based practices. This has to change.

That’s why I chose Columbia. I want to train teachers, support families, and help build a more inclusive and equitable society — one that recognizes the dignity and potential of every individual, regardless of disability.

But now I am facing a serious challenge.

To continue this journey, I urgently need to raise $50,000 USD to cover my tuition and expenses for the Fall 2025 semester. Due to recent changes in federal funding policies, scholarships and financial aid options have become more uncertain for international students like me. Despite working hard and seeking every opportunity available, I am now at risk of having to pause — or even abandon — my studies if I cannot secure this support in time.

This is where you can make a difference.

Your donation will help cover:

Every contribution — no matter the amount — helps me move one step closer to my goal. Here's what your support can help make possible:

I’ve achieved every academic goal in my life through perseverance and merit-based scholarships. With your help, I know I can continue this path and bring everything I learn back to the communities that need it most.

Even if you’re not in a position to donate, simply sharing this campaign means so much. Every gesture counts.

Thank you for believing in me, in this mission, and in a future where inclusion is not just a dream, but a reality.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Maria Tavares

M.Ed. Candidate, Intellectual Disability & Autism

Teachers College, Columbia University