Hello there! My name is Maximillian Matthews. After three years of graduate school, I’m finally one semester away from reaching a goal I’ve worked incredibly hard toward. My goal is to become a licensed therapist and provide meaningful mental health support to individuals who need it. I’m already taking steps toward that career through my internship at Mathews Counseling, a practice located in North Carolina, where I’m gaining hands-on experience and developing my skills as a clinician.

As a child, I looked up to my father who was a lawyer that advocated for the incarcerated. I knew that I wanted to be in a profession that served others. Now with several service-oriented and educational roles under my belt, I have witnessed how powerful it can be when someone feels genuinely heard, supported, and understood.

Unfortunately, reaching the final stretch of my graduate journey has come with an unexpected financial obstacle. Earlier this year, I learned that I had reached my federal student loan aggregate limit, meaning I am no longer eligible to receive federal loans to help cover my remaining tuition. Because of this, I am responsible for paying my final semester expenses out of pocket.

I am raising $1,800 to clear my outstanding balance with North Carolina A&T State University and help me complete my final semester. After investing three years of time, energy, and sacrifice into my graduate education, I’m determined not to let a financial barrier prevent me from crossing the finish line.

If you’re able to contribute, no amount is too small, and every donation will bring me one step closer to graduation on December 11, 2026. If you aren’t able to donate, sharing my fundraiser with your friends, family, and network would mean just as much to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, support my journey, and help me reach this final milestone. I truly appreciate it.