I want to go to college, but how?
I knew college was something I wanted to do. I wanted to do everything I could to not become what my parents were and I wanted to prove I was worthy of this.
Turning 18 scared me. It meant I was really on my own this time and meant I had to do college applications, FAFSA, and apply for scholarships, all on my own.
Often, when I asked for help, I was shrugged off and told to ask a parent for help on my applications. I had to be my own parent and show up for myself. I attended the meetings they hosted for parents to aid them in filling out FAFSA and found ways to bypass parental information. This alone opened so many doors for me, including grants and full rides to colleges.
I applied for scholarships (there are so many for foster youth). I also applied to be an "unaccompanied homeless youth." Even though I wasn't actually "homeless" (as in living on the street), I qualified since I was without a home and on my own, living with a friend.
There are lots of resources out there to help you achieve the college dream if you really want it. Yes, it requires more steps than a typical application, but it’s 100% worth it in the end.
Shared by
Sarah Burgdorf
Dream Makers Intern
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