Hi, my name is Gina Keleman.

I am 29 years old and have worked in the education system since I was 18. I started as an after school counselor, moved onto being a paraprofessional all while being enrolled full time in college working towards my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Upon graduating, I continued my education to obtain my Master's degree in School Counseling. Because of my financial status, I wasn't even able to afford to go to my graduation.

My master's degree consisted of 700+ hours of observation work through UNPAID internships. Having to take time off work from the classroom to work for free at a different campus depleted me to depths I didn't know were possible.

Now being a full time school counselor and working in my profession, I am still living pay check to pay check and am struggling to be able to make it to the grocery store, or to work for that matter.

As a single woman there is not much help with taxes and write-offs & my dogs unfortunately don't qualify as dependents.

I am working in Lauderhill & am living in Palm Beach County - this was a requirement of my degree program in getting me placed through my internships. (That is a huge story that I am more than glad to tell as requested). It is to the point where I can't afford gas to get to work.

The stress of my finances and trying to make it in this world is beyond lonely and depressing.

I was too embarrassed to dance on TikTok in the pandemic & am trying to do everything "right" and by the book but I can't believe as a master's degree graduate in a full time career, I still need another job & roommate. Anything helps in this crazy game of life and trying to reach my best self.

While that is still being worked out, anything that you can contribute to my gas fund is more than appreciated and will be put forth towards the students I get to service daily.