When I first enrolled in college, seeking my bachelor's degree, I had the world at my finger tips. My dad was paying for my schooling, I had no need to get a job, and I was staying in the conveniently located on-campus dorms. I had guidance for everything from classes to healthcare. I purchased my textbooks for class at full price in the campus bookstore and didn't think twice about the price. My mother sent me tips every week or so about how to organize my life and prepare for my future: "Save the coins that fall out of your laundry for your savings jar," "make friends with the smart kids in class, so they can help you study," "don't forget to get your flu shot!" Sometimes, she would send me an article, or a picture of a successful woman to remind me of my goals. I ignored her tips and spent my money carelessly. The pictures collected in a shoe box in the bottom of my closet.

In 2007, both of my parents unfortunately, passed away unexpectedly only four months apart from one another. I was a sophomore in college. My father was young, only 42 at the time, and had not set up any sort of safety net for me. I had to use his savings to pay off companies he was indebted to and in the end, I had no money and quite a few bills that had be abandoned. I had no healthcare, no money, and no way to stay in college. I was forced to take a semester off to work at Cheesecake Factory and try to refocus my life.

By the next semester, I had figured out a way to pay for schooling through loans and grants. I was still working as a server at night, so attending school became close to impossible, but I was determined to finish what my parents had started for me. I finally got a job as a nanny and my employer began to cover the cost of health insurance, which was particularly high because I have diabetes. Money was sparse, but I began to cherish the little tips my mother had sent me in my first semester of school. I posted the tips,articles, and pictures all over my wall. I began to try and visualize my future. I posted inspiration on my refrigerator, car, and everywhere just to get me through each class, each day, and eventually each semester.

I was able to make up the semester I lost by doubling my classes and I graduated in 2009 with honors. Today, I am working in a career I love and the world is, once again, at my finger tips. I realized that I was not the only who had to pull things together to make it happen. College for Us was created for anyone that needs that extra tip, motivation, or positive comment to push them toward their degree. I encourage you to use this site as a tool for reaching your goals. This site is not about me. It is about all of us, so please feel free to post comments, send art work to be posted, or get involved in the community. Thanks for your support!