Overcoming Uncertainty in Pursuit of Higher Education and a Brighter Future
As a young adult navigating life’s challenges, I’ve recently faced significant obstacles that threaten my aspirations for a better future. At 20 years old, I moved from Alabama to Texas in May, driven by the need to escape difficult circumstances—specifically, being asked to leave and ending up living out of my car. My initial plan was to stay with a family member, but I quickly realized that arrangement wouldn’t be sustainable long-term.
Since relocating, I’ve been diligently seeking employment, but despite applying for countless positions—even those with minimal requirements—opportunities remain elusive. My fallback is working for the minimum wage, but my broader goal has always been to enroll in a university here in Texas. I envisioned using the community college route to transfer into a four-year institution, ideally creating a pathway to study abroad or attend a foreign university.
With a GPA of 3.6 after two semesters at community college, I felt hopeful. However, recent legislative changes—including what I refer to as “Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill”—have cast doubt on my financial ability to pursue higher education. Relying on SNAP benefits and facing the threat of homelessness, my dream of studying overseas now feels increasingly distant. It’s becoming less a goal of adventure and more of a desperate escape plan—yet my original plan was to leverage my community college record to gain admission into a university in the U.S., then transfer abroad, and ultimately pursue my passion for forensic science.
I’ve contemplated options, focusing mainly on Germany due to familiarity, but I’m aware that many countries do not recognize community college credits. My high school GPA was a 2.1, impacted by familial issues that forced me out of school repeatedly, so I barely graduated. I felt I had turned a corner, building my academic record at community college, but now, given the financial hurdles and potential loss of SNAP benefits, everything seems uncertain.
Faced with mounting difficulties—possible homelessness, the withdrawal of support, and limited resources—I am considering dropping out of community college to pursue trade skills instead. Yet, I don’t want to settle for this life. I pursued forensic science because I wanted to make a difference and forge a meaningful path. It feels as though external forces are working against me at every turn.
My greatest motivation is my sister. I want to create a stable future for her and pave a smoother road ahead. However, I am overwhelmed by a sense of helpless