My name is Mongna (Claire) Loi, and I am an international student currently finishing my final semester at Vanderbilt University. Coming to Vanderbilt has been one of the biggest dreams of my life. I have always been passionate about science, and my mom believed in that dream so much that she made enormous sacrifices to give me this opportunity.

When I was applying to college, I unfortunately didn’t realize there was a separate scholarship application, so I did not receive financial aid to support myself. Even then, my mom chose to move forward by selling family property to make sure I could pursue my education freely.

Recently, things became much more difficult for my family. My father left home with all the savings(including all family property) and due to personal circumstances, my mother is currently unable to work. My older sister is now the only one supporting my family financially. Watching this has been heartbreaking, and I have been doing everything I can to help. As an international student, I am limited to working only 20 hours per week on campus. I work part-time to cover my living expenses and to support my family where I can, but it is not enough to cover my remaining tuition balance. This is my final semester at Vanderbilt. I have also recently been accepted into a top graduate program where I will receive fellowship funding in the future, but before I can begin that next chapter, I must first be able to graduate and receive my diploma.

I am asking for support to help me close this final gap so I can complete my degree. Every donation, no matter the size, brings me closer to graduating and honoring the sacrifices my family has made. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page would mean just as much. Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and thank you for believing in my future.