College Fund for First Generation Brown Woman

Hi guys, my name is Depa Saha. I'm going to Stony Brook this Fall after graduating from The Bronx High School of Science with a 4.0 GPA. Throughout my middle and high school years, I always hoped to attend college and study business along with psychology. My experience as a first-generation queer, Brown woman, along with financial barriers, has hindered my ability to do so.

Since the pandemic, my parents lost their jobs and are still struggling to get back onto their feet to support our family of five. Along with the financial barriers of the family, college is a new topic as I am the first in the family to go to a four-year university and graduate. I realized the lack of support and barriers is something I cannot avoid.

I have taken on a few side hustles and jobs to support my mother with bills. For the upcoming year, after financial aid, I am left looking at a bill of about 8,000 for tuition and housing after scholarships and grants. The lack of support has led me to turn towards my community of people I have grown with within my school and Bronx community.

Over my years, I have taken on multiple extracurriculars to explore different passions. I committed to the wrestling team and founded the Hindu Student Association to bring people who are interested in Hindusim together. I participated in Indian classical dance in a community organization since I was little and brought this to life in Bronx Science. I also cofounded PupilPrep, a student organization that provides free mentoring services to disadvantaged elementary and middle school students with financial and language barriers. With this, we reached over 1500 mentees and 700 mentors over the past two years. I love my community for all the support and love they have given me.

Even if you cannot support me, thank you for listening to my experience. To those who can help me, I implore you to donate whatever amount you can. If you can't donate through this platform, I accept donations through Zelle-"9293303411", Venmo- "depa-saha", and Cashapp- "$depasaha"

Even the slightest bit helps, and I am so grateful for your assistance and support. Sending you all love and healing, thank you.