Life rarely follows the path we initially envision. At 19, I became a single father to two beautiful boys, and with that responsibility came the difficult decision to put my education on hold. While many of my peers were completing their degrees, I was learning to balance work and fatherhood, determined to provide the best possible life for my sons.
Now, at 40, I stand at a special moment in my two-decade journey toward completing my Bachelor of Applied Science degree. My return to education wasn’t just about personal achievement—it was about showing my sons that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and that persistence matters more than perfect timing.
However, I’ve encountered an unexpected obstacle in this final stretch. Due to a recent change to the Department of Education policy that requires students to complete their degree within 150% of the required program credits, I’ve lost my financial aid eligibility. This policy doesn’t account for adult continuing educational students like myself who’ve had to take a longer path due to life circumstances.
I now find myself $1,038 short for my final semester—the last hurdle between me and my degree. While this amount is significant to me at this moment, it is all that stands between completing my education this semester and facing a delay in graduation. A delay would postpone my career advancement opportunities and impact the momentum I’ve built over these years of study.
Your support would mean more than just helping with tuition; it would be an investment in a story of perseverance, the power of setting an example for our children, and the belief that education should be accessible to dedicated students regardless of their path to get there. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me closer to completing this two-decade journey and showing my sons that we can overcome any obstacle with determination and support. Thank you for considering supporting my final step toward graduation.
Sincerly,
Daddy On Duty