Hi everyone! My name is Tessa and I'm going into my senior year at Indiana University studying Arts Management. Or, at least, I'm hoping to. But I won't be able to do it without YOUR help!



I didn't always attend IU. I grew up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, or Mormon Church as it's more popularly known, and after I graduated from high school I decided to attend Brigham Young University, the church's University. Going to BYU was a great experience, but it was also one of the most difficult times of my life. It was a time riddled with depression, secrets, and lies for me because in addition to being Mormon I am gay.



Being a gay Mormon at BYU is not easy and for me it proved to be completely overwhelming. After a year, I made the decision to transfer to Indiana University where I felt I would be able to be honest about myself and be generally happier and more fulfilled. (My girlfriend of 1 year at the time [now 3.5 years] who lived in Indiana was also excited about this decision.) When I told my parents about my decision to transfer, they were shocked, disappointed, and angry.



And my parents cut me off.



Since I left BYU, it has been my responsibility to pay for my education. My parents have told me many times that their money is only good at BYU. Their resolve is so strong that they refuse to even co-sign on an educational loan for me to pay my expenses for school.



Last year, I decided to start working full-time to try to earn more money for school. I managed to find a great job, but my expenses still only broke even. During that time I attended community college part time, and it deeply strengthened my resolve to return to my full-time education and complete my degree.



Because I am under 23 years old, I am still required to declare my parents' income on any application for financial aid. This means that the only financial aid I can receive is a Stafford Loan, which is not nearly enough to cover the cost of my education. Despite working more than full time at multiple jobs, I won't be able to afford to return to school this month without help.



I am reaching out to you in hopes that you can help me achieve my dream of finishing school. My goal amount may seem large, but any amount that you can give would help IMMEASURABLY! To put it in perspective, my very first tuition payment is due next week and it's just over $650. Every little bit can help me to at least get to that first tuition payment!



My girlfriend, Hannah, and I have prepared some fabulous prizes for you to say thank you for donating. Even if you aren't in a position to donate right now, please share the link to this page on your Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, or whatever social media site you like best.



Thanks for reading and sharing!

Read more