After serving in the military and working at the post office, I came to Yakima Valley College to build a better career for my future. Like many veterans, I joined the military in part to earn VA education benefits. Those benefits now cover my tuition, but even so, I see every day how difficult it is for students to balance the rising cost of living with the cost of higher education.
I chose to attend community college because it was close to home, accessible, and far more affordable than other options in the area. My goal is to earn a degree in business administration and eventually work in government, either as a policy analyst or in human services.
Even though my own tuition is covered, I know that financial stress is one of the biggest barriers students face. The costs go far beyond tuition—books, rent, food, transportation—and those expenses create real mental strain. Free community and technical college would lift some of that burden. It would give students the ability to focus on their education instead of constantly worrying about how to pay for it.
I also believe wraparound supports are critical. Programs like benefit hubs, which help cover books, food, or rent, can make all the difference. And colleges need to do a better job making students aware of mental health services and other supports so they can succeed not just academically, but personally.
Investing in free college and wraparound supports is how Washington can honor its commitment not only to veterans like me, but to every student who is working hard to build a better future.