As a first-generation college student at Yakima Valley College, education has been a blessing in my life, but also one of the hardest journeys I’ve ever taken. For a long time, I was homeless while attending classes, living out of my car and forced to choose between paying for books or paying for housing. I chose school, because I know education is the only way forward.
Even now, the financial pressures are overwhelming. Financial aid does not cover enough, and with no family support, every bill falls on me. Working while in school is not sustainable—I’ve had to make the impossible choice of focusing on my education while struggling to take care of my basic needs.
Free community and technical college would change everything. Instead of deciding between food, rent, or tuition, I could focus on my studies and building a better life. It would remove a huge burden not just for me, but for thousands of students who are trying to break cycles of poverty and build stability for themselves and their families.
I also believe every student should have access to work-study. Right now, too many of us are excluded by narrow qualifications. If someone is willing to work and stay in school, they should have the opportunity to do both.
Washington lawmakers have the power to make higher education a true pathway, not a privilege. Free college would give students like me a real chance to succeed.