Save Maria's Education

The short version:  I was in the process of obtaining permanent residency and there was a mix-up at the organization I applied through and, as a result, my application was denied on the basis that it had been "abandoned."  As a result, I lost my work permit, health insurance, and access to federal financial aid needed to complete my MSW degree at Springfield College. While I wait for my reapplication to go through USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) I'm hoping to finish my last semester and earn my MSW degree through Springfield College's accelerated BS/MSW program.  In addition to needing $5,000 to pay the immigration attorney, I also need to raise $14,000 to pay for my spring semester tuition.

In my lifetime I've experienced family separation, violence, and uncertainty as a result of living in the US without documentation and lots of moves across the US as my parents have sought economic and emotional security. These experiences have fueled my desire to become a social worker and help others trying to get by on the margins of society and achieve their dreams. 

I'm asking you to help me achieve my dreams so I can help others achieve theirs.