Unfortunately, right when I began grad school, I encountered several hurdles in my health and personal life. Before I was able to access state Medical Assistance, I incurred about $2,500 in medical debts while trying to get some answers and solutions for concerning and, at times, debilitating symptoms that had been plaguing me for months (on top of my pre-existing chronic conditions). While enrolled as a full-time grad student over the last two years, I've also been working to support my basic needs, but I haven't gotten the chance to save much at all beyond that.

As I sort out my post-grad plans, it is looking very likely that I'll be spending the next year in Mexico, teaching English on a Fulbright Fellowship (details TBD). While this is incredibly exciting news and a very prestigious opportunity I would love to take advantage of, the living stipend provided is just enough to cover living costs throughout the program duration and will definitely not allow me to save up for things like rent and basics that I'll need immediately upon return to the U.S.. I am working hard to save up funds this summer so that I can thrive in the next few years, and getting rid of this medical debt would be a huge weight off my shoulders that will allow me to be more financially secure as I re-establish myself.