Unlocking Opportunity For Support Of Phoenix's College

Annette Valencia is organizing this fundraiser.

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Help Phoenix Attend Her Dream School – Fordham University!

Hi, my name is Phoenix, and I’m reaching out to ask for your support to help me attend the school of my dreams: Fordham University in New York City.

I am a highly motivated senior at Manvel High School in Texas. With a GPA of 5.6/6.0, multiple AP classes, and a passion for public service and leadership, I’ve worked incredibly hard to earn admission to one of the top universities in the country.

I’ve been accepted to multiple colleges and universities, but Fordham is where I feel I truly belong. Unfortunately, my parents have insisted that I attend a different school—the one they chose—and have made it clear they will not support me financially or provide housing if I follow my own path.

At the last minute, they informed me of this decision. In response, my grandmother (Georgia) and godmother (Louisiana) stepped in to help me secure an extension with the university and begin the urgent search for funding. I’m incredibly grateful to the Dean of Admissions at Fordham, who approved my request for a second extension until June 25, 2025 so I can raise the necessary support. I’m also actively applying for grants and scholarships and waiting on approvals.

Despite this heartbreaking challenge, I am not giving up on my dream.

Fordham offers the best foundation for my future in Political Science and Law, where I hope to shape public policy and advocate for justice. I’m proud to be a third-generation American and the first in my immediate family to attend college. My accomplishments include:

District Prose & Poetry Champion
Austin Capitol Congressional Debate Finalist
AP Scholar Award recipient
National Honor Society member
National League of Junior Cotillion graduate

In addition to academics, I’ve served my community through volunteer work at assisted living centers, food banks, and by providing child and pet care.

Why I’m Asking for Help

My parents’ last-minute decision left me with no time to plan financially for college without their support. I’m working hard to secure aid, but the cost of tuition, housing, and living expenses in New York City is overwhelming.

Your donation will help cover:

Tuition & fees
Housing
Books & supplies
Travel & basic living expenses

My Goal

I’m asking for $65,000 to make my first year at Fordham possible while I continue to apply for grants, work-study, and scholarships.

Every contribution brings me one step closer to turning this dream into a reality. Even if you can’t give, please share my story—your support, encouragement, and prayers mean everything to me.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

– Phoenix

https://youtu.be/Xf6ytQFXBz0?si=-g2bpHdZ3eXRpB2C