Teresa's final semester of a computer science degree in San Jose

I'm the first person in my family to go to university. I'm studying a computer science degree at San Jose Polytechnic, and I'm one term away from graduating. I have worked as a shop assistant to pay my way, but this term my hours were cut and I have an unpaid balance of $1,550. The registrar has told me I can't enroll for the next term until the balance is cleared. I have a first-class average, and my academic advisor has written in support of my application for a payment plan. Graduating means a stable job and the chance to support my younger siblings. Without enrolling this term I'd lose my place and my scholarship eligibility. I'm not asking for a handout - I want to finish what I started and then help the next student. Everything raised goes to the university's accounts office toward the outstanding balance and the final term's fees. Where the $1,550 goes: • Final term tuition: $1,100 • Exam and lab fees: $105 • Textbooks and materials: $345 Thank you for reading my story.