The Other Side of Student Loans

Before I start on my spiel, I just want to thank you for taking the time to visit my campaign. Every little bit helps.

A little about me:

I work for a local freight company, it's a new job and the hours vary from 'will I lose qualification for insurance?' to 'when was the last time I got a full nights sleep?' depending on the season, and sometimes by the night. I'm also working towards building a name as a freelance bookkeeper, because my hope is I won't always need a fundraiser for my own needs, I'd rather be on the other side of this.

While I'm working 2 jobs, I'm also trying to make time for my hobbies: I love to write, I'm teaching myself to crochet, I'm trying to get back into painting, I try to spend time with friends and family. Right now, I'm the only one in my household making money; we're hoping that will change soon. I'm trying to build a life with my soulmate, Sebastian, and I don't want it to be a life filled with debt. I'd rather it was a life filled with dogs, yarn, books, and charity and goodwill.

What's this campaign all about?:

I graduated from Eastern Washington University 4 years ago magna cum laude. I had decisive plans for how I was going to pay off my loans in 5 years. I now owe more than I did when this process began. Part of the issue is and has been that I don't make enough money to even try and put a dent in the loans. I have qualified for reduced payments since the start and while it makes it easier for me to make month to month payments, they're not doing much ($30 on the principal to be exact, and that's only after my payment doubled this last summer).

If I continue making these payments without change, it will be paid off in just over 35 years. So some quick math. If I can get as little as $35 donated/month overall, I can almost halve my total loan period. From 35 years to less than 20 years. I'm hoping with your help it won't take me that long.

Some important information and fun tidbits to add:

This campaign will only continue for as long as it's needed. I will keep it updated with my progress, and if I am able to contribute more from my end, I may close this campaign long before my total is funded. (Cross your fingers)

I want to show my appreciation to those of you who do donate, part of that will occur through the updates I post, but I'd like to do more. You'll see some rewards offered on my page.

One thing I'd like to add:

Even if you leave this campaign without donating, I hope you'll consider voting for free education when the chance comes.