Hello, my name is Rana. I am a 34-year-old immigrant who was blessed to have the opportunity to come to the US as a student 15 years ago with nothing but just a dream to live my version of the "American Dream". After years of spending a copious amount of my family funds and depleting my parents retirement, I graduated with both an undergraduate and graduate degree. Post graduation, I worked with an employer that sponsored my employment visa. I was extremely grateful for the opportunity, however I was extremely underpaid for the value I was bringing to the table. I didn't say much as my priority was to get my Greencard (Permanent Residence) sponsored which would eventually help me become a US citizen.

 

In 2020, I landed a job with a global company and they paid me fairly (a lot more than my previous employer). At that time, I was thankful because now I was financially in a position to also help out my family. My employer had also started my Greencard process which was my top priority since graduation. I felt like the stars were finally aligned and the universe was opening up doors for me. On April 21, 2022, I was among the first batch of people the company let go. IT ROCKED MY WORLD! For an immigrant, on a work visa, this is the ultimate nightmare because your visa to legally stay in the US is attached to your employment. Once terminated, you have 2 months to either find a job or go back home. I consulted an immigration attorney and asked about the options I have.

 

One of the options, and the most rational one, is to go back being a student. I knew that going back home was not an option. I have given 15 years to this country that I now call home. I built a life here and there is no way I was willing to drop everything I worked hard for and leave. This just wasn't happening. With the limited options that I had, I decided to go back to school for an MBA. However, once I choose to go back to school, I will be treated as an international student again, and with that being said, I will also have to show the school that I have the funds to pay for my education. This is where I'm reaching out for help. I am not in a position to ask my family for funds. As an international student, I do not have the luxury to apply for student loans without a co-signor, which isn't the best option. I also am not able to apply for Financial Aid. The funds I raise through your help will not just help me get admission, but it'll help cover my entire MBA cost and 1 year of living expenses. After the first year of my MBA, I will be legally allowed to work again and also be in a position to afford my living expenses. With your help, I will not only be able to get an MBA and hone my skills, but you will also help me realize the dream I carried in my heart when I stepped foot on that plane 15 years ago. I still aspire to be the best Management Consultant I can be and hopefully with your help, I can have an impact, be a leader through my services, and also be a voice for many immigrants to "fast-track" the immigration process for anyone who chooses to come to this great nation for higher education/work.

 

Lots of Love,

Rana