Support Myles' Final Year at NYU

Hi Family,

I hope you are all doing well and staying safe.

I assume you’ve landed here because we have been fortunate enough to cross paths at some time or another – however, if we have not met before, My name is Myles Rutherford I am an accelerated nursing student at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing. I am originally from Southern California, and I spent the last eight years in San Francisco where I received my first B.A. at San Francisco State University. Although I was not sure when I would return to school to continue my education, I knew I would be back very soon.

On May 16, 2023, I received my letter of acceptance from New York University. NYU is a university that I have dreamed of attending for years, a university that I was initially denied admission to after graduating high school, and the same university I was accepted into almost 10 years later - a tremendous accomplishment.

I completed my first year at NYU this spring term and will be entering my final academic year this Fall 2024. However, I have found myself in a position where I am unable to afford my very last year (Fall 2024, Spring 2025) at the university, and I am concerned about being in a compromising academic position to continue my higher education. Due to my financial ability, or lack thereof, I was left with no other choice than to take a leave of absence from the university this summer. As I’m sure you can imagine, this has been devastating and disheartening.

During my time at the university, I have struggled to stay afloat financially while living and working in one of the most expensive cities in the nation, yet I still managed to perform at the top of my class, consistently positioning myself on the Dean’s list. This situation has left me feeling completely defeated and discouraged in my academic journey now more than ever due to my unexpected leave of absence from the university.

Notwithstanding the challenges posed by my financial circumstances, my resolve to attain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from New York University remains resolute. My dedication to my studies is reflected in my most recent semester with a 3.667 GPA while working full-time.

I recognize I am privileged to be at NYU, and I feel honored to be a student (and soon alumnus) at one of the most prestigious universities in the nation. However, the cost of attendance is significant.. and although I am prepared to continue working hard to cover these costs, the financial responsibility of funding my education feels daunting. Thus, I come to you, my community to ask for your support. Your support will continue to empower me with the opportunity to further my passion-driven career trajectory to serve underserved communities through participation in my other interests, i.e. community service and clinical externship opportunities. Moreover, I will be one step closer to becoming a registered nurse and ensuring fair, inclusive access to healthcare for a diversity of individuals facing socioeconomic barriers.

Attached, I have a screenshot of the estimated cost of attendance for my final year at NYU. Please know that I am beyond grateful for absolutely any support you offer – and I look forward to returning to university this fall.

With love,

Myles (future RN)