Lawrence Visaya (lakewoodpapi) Education Fund
Donation protected
As most of you know, my biggest dream has been to educate the new generation in a way that they deserve - real, honest, and accessible. Thankfully, I've had a taste of that through TikTok, where I've gained over 400,000 followers, by introducing social justice to a younger crowd and talking about social justice issues through trending topics.
Growing up, I've always participated and believed in community, investing my time and efforts in community service and programs since the age of 9, and I've always known that I wanted to get a college degree and bring home knowledge and skills to my hometown. I want to start a model of always remembering my roots and coming back to serve the same community that raised me.
Unfortunately, with the combination of the struggles of being a low-income, first-generation college student, and the COVID pandemic - college wasn't ever easy for me, and some days it really felt like it wasn't FOR me.
Right now, it looks like I will not be going back to finish off my degree due to my financial situation. I usually have been able to work through the summers and during breaks to be able to get by, but with the lockdown I haven't been able to get my hands on a job, on top of finding one that doesn't risk my family's health.
I have never been the one to ask for money, especially during this time, but I'm not sure how else I can get by - especially with the timing of everything. If I stop school here, I've thrown away three years of student loans (and time), and will have to start paying that without a bachelor-degree-level job.
I want to make it known that this isn't just me asking for a hand out - but more of an investment. I want to use that privilege of education to come back and aid the new generation in creating a more equitable future. I am a true believer in reciprocity, and I always have that in mind in everything I do - I will make it my effort to give back.
I will be using this money purely for my tuition (9,000$ a year, in-state resident @ WWU). I will be trying to use my savings and trying to find other ways for work to pay for my bills, rent, and family situations. Also, if possible, I would like to donate to a local community aid fund that will also fund other students that are in my community (which I will post receipts to).
If you are able, anything helps, even a share. I will be appreciative of anything I get, and am already appreciative of you for taking the time to read my story.
Growing up, I've always participated and believed in community, investing my time and efforts in community service and programs since the age of 9, and I've always known that I wanted to get a college degree and bring home knowledge and skills to my hometown. I want to start a model of always remembering my roots and coming back to serve the same community that raised me.
Unfortunately, with the combination of the struggles of being a low-income, first-generation college student, and the COVID pandemic - college wasn't ever easy for me, and some days it really felt like it wasn't FOR me.
Right now, it looks like I will not be going back to finish off my degree due to my financial situation. I usually have been able to work through the summers and during breaks to be able to get by, but with the lockdown I haven't been able to get my hands on a job, on top of finding one that doesn't risk my family's health.
I have never been the one to ask for money, especially during this time, but I'm not sure how else I can get by - especially with the timing of everything. If I stop school here, I've thrown away three years of student loans (and time), and will have to start paying that without a bachelor-degree-level job.
I want to make it known that this isn't just me asking for a hand out - but more of an investment. I want to use that privilege of education to come back and aid the new generation in creating a more equitable future. I am a true believer in reciprocity, and I always have that in mind in everything I do - I will make it my effort to give back.
I will be using this money purely for my tuition (9,000$ a year, in-state resident @ WWU). I will be trying to use my savings and trying to find other ways for work to pay for my bills, rent, and family situations. Also, if possible, I would like to donate to a local community aid fund that will also fund other students that are in my community (which I will post receipts to).
If you are able, anything helps, even a share. I will be appreciative of anything I get, and am already appreciative of you for taking the time to read my story.
Organizer
Lawrence Visaya Yamut
Organizer
Lakewood, WA