Help Me Combat the Overwhelming Cost of College

Since I was a child, I have always wanted to be a veterinarian. From the time I knew to the time it came for me to decide on college, I strived for the best grades possible to ensure that I would be able to afford college with the help of scholarships.

To help cut down on costs, I took college classes at a reduced rate while in high school followed by two years at a community college. Because I worked full time, I managed to afford the entire two years out of pocket. After a full two years, I moved on to a 4-year school. I moved near a small school that offered me a half-scholarship to finish my last two years. After applying for financial aid, I was awarded loans and grants to cover all but a few hundred dollars for the first two semesters.

My dad was willing to cover the balance that was not covered by financial aid. Unbeknownst to me, he took money out of his annuity after a difficult year with little work. This money paid for me to go to school and allowed him to survive until work picked up again.

This year, when I filed for financial aid again, I input my tax information as well as my dad's tax information. Because he was forced to take money out of his annuity to cover my tuition last year, he had to report it as income this year. As a result, the expected family contribution rose which negated my grants and caused me to lose a significant portion of my financial aid.

It means so much to me that my father was able to help me in the past, but I could never ask him to put himself in financial distress for me. I am asking for help with the cost of tuition so I can finish my schooling.

I already work nights full-time and am scrambling to save as much as possible, but it's not easy on a veterinary nurse's salary. Please help me to finish my schooling to I can move on to vet school.