As a former foster care child, figuring out how to pay for my college expenses such as tuition, books, & housing was quite intimidating. Thankfully, I became a scholar of the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, which supported me throughout my undergraduate degree at Arizona State University. The Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust is one of the most unique and giving scholarship programs for former foster care youth in Arizona. As an undergraduate student, not only did they support me financially in covering my college expenses, but they also created a community of mentors and friends that guided me through my best and most difficult moments.

The scholarship directors were always accessible to talk with, whether it was school related or not, through their regular progress check-ins. There were also events throughout the year to spend quality time with other scholars. Having those experiences makes a world of a difference in the lives of former foster care youth pursuing their education. It fostered those strong relationships that are needed to succeed.

Alongside creating a community of mentors and friends, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust connected me to resources such as supplemental scholarships, community programs for foster youth, and academic and financial experts at the university. This helped to affirm that I was in fact, receiving all of the support necessary to reach my full potential as a student. A BIG THANK YOU to the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust for going above and beyond in ensuring that former foster care youth receive a well rounded education. Keep changing lives, you are truly remarkable!