Surviving New York!
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As a result of persistent negligence/abuse from my parents that recently came to a head: this semester, I found myself in a position wherein, if I did not take my financial life into my own hands in full, I would not be allowed to continue my education at the university I love. With the help of some incredible aunts and uncles, I underwent the involved process of petitioning Carnegie Mellon University for "independent" status, which was ultimately awarded to me. This was a huge relief and a huge win; however, it was only the first of many battles to come.
I have finally received my financial aid refund check for fall semester, but the amount I received was lower than in years past. Astoundingly, the FAFSA increased my "estimated family contribution" when I secured financial independence. Additionally, because my father failed to pay my health insurance for the 2018 - 2019 school year, that $2600 fee was covered by my loan/grant money prior to the release of my refund check. Those are the funds I anticipate to cover my basic living expenses.
As a part of our required curriculum at CMU, junior Directing students have the unparalleled opportunity to spend spring semester living and studying in New York. I am thrilled for this upcoming period of artistic and personal growth - but I am also made deeply anxious by the impending skyrocketed cost of living.
As it stands, I am a full-time student in an incredibly rigorous program of study. I also work three jobs, and I am barely able to make ends meet. It takes a lot for me to swallow my pride and ask for help - but I know that, if I want to be in a position to process the education I value so deeply, I need to find a way to alleviate the burden of my financial situation.
For anyone who can lend a hand: Thank you SO much!! One day when I have a quirky, Off-Broadway cult hit, hit me up for comps!
I have finally received my financial aid refund check for fall semester, but the amount I received was lower than in years past. Astoundingly, the FAFSA increased my "estimated family contribution" when I secured financial independence. Additionally, because my father failed to pay my health insurance for the 2018 - 2019 school year, that $2600 fee was covered by my loan/grant money prior to the release of my refund check. Those are the funds I anticipate to cover my basic living expenses.
As a part of our required curriculum at CMU, junior Directing students have the unparalleled opportunity to spend spring semester living and studying in New York. I am thrilled for this upcoming period of artistic and personal growth - but I am also made deeply anxious by the impending skyrocketed cost of living.
As it stands, I am a full-time student in an incredibly rigorous program of study. I also work three jobs, and I am barely able to make ends meet. It takes a lot for me to swallow my pride and ask for help - but I know that, if I want to be in a position to process the education I value so deeply, I need to find a way to alleviate the burden of my financial situation.
For anyone who can lend a hand: Thank you SO much!! One day when I have a quirky, Off-Broadway cult hit, hit me up for comps!
Organizer
Hannah Manikowski
Organizer
Pittsburgh, PA