Nickolas G.

“I grew up in poverty, even homeless at times as a child. Federal financial aid was the only reason I could afford higher education, which allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the economy through both labor and strategic leadership.”

Nickolas G.
UW-Milwaukee

Ash S.

“I would not be able to study nursing to be able to help others without federal aid. I have no family who can help pay for schooling as an independent student who has been cut off since 17.”

Ash S.
UW-Milwaukee

Elise R.

“I got a Federal Pell grant my first year of my undergraduate education, which qualified me for several other scholarships and grants. I would not have been able to afford my undergraduate degree or current graduate program without federal aid. Now, I’m living a life I could only have dreamed about!”

Elise R.
UW-Milwaukee

Elise R

Starlette S.

Growing up with not much money has helped me attend college. Without financial aid I wouldn’t be where I am today. College has become accessible to many due to financial aid, changing the lives of many like mine. Without financial aid I would have no choice but to drop out.

Starlette S.
UW-Milwaukee

Em L.

I would have not been able to attend college if I did not receive federal grants and scholarships. I cannot thank the UW-system enough for their generosity.

Em L.
UW-Milwaukee

Samantha P.

Coming from a single parent house hold, my dreams of going to college relied solely on financial aid. This May I completed my Bachelors of Social Work from UW-Milwaukee. Federal funding faintly handedly put me through college. I am returning to UWM in the Fall to earn my Masters of School Social Work. Giving back to my community is my dream and so many others. Taking away federal funding is purposely denying students equal opportunity to success. I am incredibly thankful for the aid I have received.

Samantha P.
UW-Milwaukee

Samantha P

Vilma M.

Coming from a low-income household, attending college was never even an option until I learned about FAFSA. Receiving the Pell grant has made college possible, as a STEM student, it has helped relieve that financial stress, allowing me to fully focus on my career and allowing me to break barriers as a first-generation immigrant.

Vilma M.
UW-Milwaukee

Diante J.

“Throughout my time as an undergrad, I have come to truly understand and appreciate the significance of funding. Specifically, the Pell Grant has helped cover essentials such as educational materials and summer courses. Being able to fully participate in the opportunities that shape our future requires access to consistent funding. Hence, the reason why I wanted to … speak about the impact it can make in a scholar’s journey.”

Diante J.
UW-Milwaukee