My name is Luna, and I’m a first-generation college sophomore studying Health Sciences on the pre-dental track with a 3.83 GPA at Oakland University. When I began college, I was navigating everything on my own, I didn’t even know I needed to register for my own classes, and I missed orientation. Still, I worked hard to build my place on campus and in community.

I currently volunteer at free dental and medical clinics serving uninsured families, work with autistic individuals through campus programs, and hold different leadership positions on campus, and because of that I was honored to receive Oakland University’s Keeper of the Dream Scholarship, which recognizes students for service, leadership, and impact. There’s even much more I hope to do as I continue my education with your support.

Despite all efforts, my immigration status makes it extremely difficult to access financial support. I am legally present in the United States, but I do not hold an F-1 visa or permanent residency. As a result, I am ineligible for federal financial aid, most scholarships, and work authorization.

I initially entered the U.S. on an L-2 visa as a dependent child, which restricted my ability to work. My immigration status has recently changed, and I expect to become eligible for work authorization around April. Once approved, I hope to work during the summer to help pay my tuition starting in Fall 2026.

Because of financial challenges, I was only able to enroll part-time last semester (9 credits), and tuition remains my biggest barrier. I have always believed in earning my education through merit and scholarships, but my immigration status has excluded me from nearly every opportunity, regardless of effort, qualifications, or commitment to giving back to community.

I’m raising funds to continue my education and community service, and to stay on track toward becoming a dentist who serves underserved communities. Every contribution will go directly toward my tuition costs.

Until fall of 2026 I need $ 16,000 to continue my education, and the break down is:

Winter 2026:

Lower-level courses

3 classes = 12 credits

Cost: $6,846

Upper-level course

1 class = 3 credits

Cost: $2,001

Winter 2026 total

4 classes = 15 credits

Total cost: $8,847

Summer 2026:

Lower-level courses

2 classes = 8 credits

Cost: $4,564

Upper-level course

1 class = 4 credits

Cost: $2,668

Summer 2026 total

3 classes = 12 credits

Total cost: $7,232

Total:

7 classes = 27 credits

Total cost: $16,079

Thank you for supporting my education and the work I hope to continue doing in my community. If you’d like to know more, I’m happy to share my resume or more about my qualifications.