Hello Everyone,

My name is Gianna Daley. I am an international medical student from Jamaica, currently in my fourth and final year at Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. I am humbly reaching out to request support in paying my remaining fees for medical school.

My dream is to become a forensic pathologist. I am deeply passionate about using medicine to bring justice, equity and healing to underserved communities. In my home country, Jamaica, there are too few pathologists and our laboratory infrastructure is in need of development. My long term goal is to return home to improve both the diagnostic and forensic services, ensure accurate cause of death investigations and be a mentor to future pathologists.

My decision to study in the United States was driven by the opportunity to gain exposure to diverse clinical experiences and advanced laboratory training. At Howard, I served as the 2024-2025 Executive Director of the New Freedmen’s Clinic, a student-run clinic that provides free healthcare to uninsured residents of Washington, D.C. I lead a dedicated team, ensuring we deliver high-quality care to those most in need. I also serve as president of the Pathology Student Interest Group, organizing career panels and hands-on workshops to help fellow students explore this vital field. These experiences have sharpened my skills, deepened my commitment to service and strengthened my drive to use medicine as a tool for justice.

As an international student, I face significant barriers to financing my education. I cannot obtain U.S. private loans without a co-signer and despite my persistence, no one has been able to assist in this endeavor since my first year of medical school. In spite of this challenge, I have remained focused and purpose-driven. I have applied for the limited small scholarship opportunities for which I am eligible, and I have also worked as a Graduate Resident Assistant, which has covered my housing while allowing me to mentor undergraduate students. However, these efforts do not cover tuition.

On August 13, 2025, I received a notice from the Office of the Bursar stating that unless my balance is reduced to below $5,000.00 by August 17, 2025, I will be unregistered from my courses for the Fall 2025 semester and lose my housing assignment. My current balance is $77,462.73, of which, $48,730.07 is from the previous 2024-2025 academic year. I have been making payments through the school's payment plan and I have not missed a deadline, but I cannot fulfill this requirement without help.

I am calling on you for help. Your support, whether through a donation of any amount or by sharing, will help pay my remaining fees, help me stay in school and finish my final year and help me continue on a path toward serving communities in both the U.S. and Jamaica. As we say back home: “Every Mickle Mek a Muckle” which translates to every small contribution adds up to something great. I am deeply grateful for every cent, every dollar and every share that brings me closer to my goal.

Thank you for supporting me and believing in the future I am working toward.

-Gianna Daley