“I found out while on campus and automatically started crying,” she recalled. “It was a huge burden lifted off me. It meant I could follow through with my plans to become a teacher without worrying about how I would pay it off with such a low income.”
As a first-generation college student, Lilu knew the road to higher education would come with challenges—but the support of Marshall For All made that road feel possible.
“Coming from a family where no one is going to college, this opportunity changed my life. It reminded me that hard work pays off,” she said. “Now I want to become financially literate enough to help someone else in my shoes.”
Marshall For All provides the opportunity to earn a debt-free degree while empowering students like Lilu to focus on academics rather than stress about tuition or loans. It’s also helped her build a vibrant social network through program-hosted events and connections.
“I’ve met so many new friends that I wouldn’t have met otherwise. Being part of this program has pushed me to succeed and made me more confident,” Lilu said. “Knowing I was selected to be part of something that believes in me has made my college experience so much more meaningful.”
Instead of worrying about debt, Lilu now works part-time and uses her earnings to support herself. And as she continues her journey toward becoming a teacher, Lilu carries with her the confidence and community that Marshall For All helped provide.
“My goal is to give back. This program gave me hope, and I want to pass that on.”
To learn more about Marshall University’s Marshall For All program and how it supports students like Lilu, visit www.marshall.edu/marshallforall.
