Trans Student Rebuilding Life & Education in Montana

Hi everyone, my name is Arid J. Engel (he/him), and I’m a transgender social work student trying to rebuild my life from the ground up.

After losing family support and surviving a lifetime of hardship in Missouri, I’ve made the decision to transfer to the University of Montana this fall to start fresh, continue my education, and finally live in an environment that supports who I am. This move represents more than just school—it’s a chance to leave survival mode behind.

I’ve already accepted full federal loans, the full Pell Grant, and a generous academic transfer scholarship, but my remaining balance is still over $9,000.

That doesn’t include travel costs, housing deposits, or basic needs as I relocate across the country with my emotional support cat, Willow.

This fundraiser will help cover:

My remaining university balance (~$9,000)

Travel and relocation costs (~$1,500+)

ESA accommodations and supplies

Food, dorm essentials, and emergency savings to start safely

I’ve fought incredibly hard to get to this point. Missouri Southern was an incredible starting point and I met many individuals who changed my life for the better. Project Stay (TRIO), my social work team, and some other incredible faculty helped me believe I was worth investing in—but now I need community support to help me cross the finish line.

If you’re able to give, thank you. If you’re not, sharing this link still means the world to me. I’m not giving up—and with your help, I won’t have to.

With all my heart,

Arid J. Engel