Help Sarah Go To Harvard!

On May 2014, I had to leave American University due to a tragic situation. It’s not a choice that I wanted to make, but I was left with no other choice. However, I have dreams and aspirations that I know, in my heart and soul, I can accomplish. I decided that the best step to make those dreams a reality is by finishing up my undergraduate degree through Harvard University’s Extension School. And this is where I need your help.

I am trying to raise $5000 to register for courses through Harvard University’s Extension School program for pre-admission to their Bachelor’s Degree equivalent program. Normally, I wouldn’t be creating this GoFundMe account -- but I’m in a very, very rough situation.

My family’s home is currently facing foreclosure. It’s extremely difficult for my family to stay afloat and to ensure that there is a roof over their heads when our primary source of income -- our martial arts gym -- is on the brinks of closing. In addition, my parents have been responsible for my terminally ill grandfather’s medical bills -- which has took a huge toll on our financial situation.

Furthermore, my little sister is currently in high school. I do not want my parents to bear something that they aren’t able to afford. I also do not want to add more suffering for my sister by making it extremely hard for her to attend her dream college for financial reasons.

Unfortunately, I was just laid off by my part-time restaurant job.  My internship at the Huffington Post ends next week. I am afraid that I won't have sufficient funds to survive AND save for my college tuition.

I wanted to finish up my degree through the Harvard Extension School program, because I know that their program encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and real-life experience. With my focus in international relations and journalism, I would like to take what I learn in the classroom and transfer it to the real world. I have done this in the past when I traveled to Myanmar last January with a few other individuals to learn how education is serving as a successful foundation for education reform. I did some of my own research on the political youth opposition movement and the social tension surrounding the ethnic conflict against the Rohingyas.

With my Harvard education, I hope I can continue on this path to not only achieve my career ambitions -- but to bring back nobility of journalism into the field. I truly believe that with your contribution, I will be able to become a journalist that dedicates itself to keep those in power accountable and sharing the stories of people from all around the world.

FAQs:

Why Not Financial Aid?
Unfortunately, the pre-admission courses for the Harvard Extension School are not eligible for financial aid. I wouldn't have the ability to apply through FAFSA until I am admitted into the BA/ALB program. 

I have been looking and applying into scholarships, but very few of them would have allowed me to come up with the funds before the deadline.

As mentioned before, my parents and I are not in the right financial situation to qualify for a student loan. I'm hoping that while I am working at a restaurant and complete my paid internships, I will be able to build my credit to be able to cover any expenses. However, right now, student loans aren't an option -- and that's why I need your help.

What will the $5000 cover?
The $5,000 will cover the registration, course, and textbook fees.

Why the Harvard Extension School?
I want to obtain a college degree, but I also wanted to ensure that I had the right real world experience that will make me more than a better productive member of society. The HES program is extremely flexible, student-centered, and encourages innovation. The HES also has a very simple admission process, in which, I complete three Harvard Honors-Level courses -- and get accepted into their undergraduate program!

Thankfully, once accepted, financial aid will be able to cover my expenses.

What are you doing now?
I am currently working  as a Politics Intern for the Huffington Post. I am looking to find another part-time job and get involved in freelance work.

Thank you to all who have read my fundraising campaign and are considering donating to my cause. I really appreciate your efforts and generosity.