My name is Vanessa. I’m currently a student at Rhode Island College studying chemistry. I’ve had the dream of earning my doctorate and becoming a “serious” scientist ever since I was about 10 years old.

However, a few years later, I lost my father, and it threw my world into a loop. Losing a parent is like losing a pillar to one’s foundation, and with just my widowed mother, we were left on a single income. I acclimatized by working overtime for many years to afford my college expenses, but still ended up having to take out loans.

I’m still chasing this dream of being a doctorate scientist, but it’s hard to give my all when I’m so wrapped up in educational finances!