My dad would always ask what I wanted to be when I grew up. A lot of people in my family are builders and I always thought to follow in their footsteps I would need to be an engineer. He made sure to remind me I had to go to college for that. He’s super supportive, like, “as long as you have a plan, go for it.” 

But the task of applying for college turned out to be so confusing and the FAFSA was very complicated. My dad didn't go to college, so he wasn’t familiar with the process and wasn’t able to help.

I reached out to uAspire for help via text and was able to meet with an advisor, Alayna, in my high school career center. We completed the entire FAFSA in one session. It was so helpful and took a huge weight off my shoulders.

After that first session, I messaged Alayna every time I had a question. During the process, she made sure I had everything I needed by connecting me to helpful resources like uAspire’s scholarship support. 
Now that I am in college I receive texts with helpful information about deadlines and the advisors check in with me to make sure my FAFSFA is submitted. 

I can never thank Alayna enough for helping me take the first steps. Going to college is important for me because I want to be a role model for my younger brother, and I want the experience.

Jean attends Lesley University