Royal Zap

Getting approved for tuition assistance through my job felt like hitting the jackpot. I remember staring at the email, heart racing, realizing I could earn my business degree without drowning in debt. It was a huge relief, like someone handed me a map to my dreams.

The people around me have been amazing. My coworkers cheer me on, high-fiving me after tough exams and texting encouragement when I’m buried in books. My boss tweaks my schedule to fit classes, and my family and friends keep me grounded, reminding me why I’m doing this when I’m exhausted. Their support means everything, and I’m so grateful.

But I know I’m blessed. Millions of Americans can’t afford college. With over 45 million people owing about $37,000 each in student loans, higher education feels out of reach for so many. I dodged that bullet thanks to my job’s program, and it makes me want to help others get the same chance. I want to mentor, maybe start a business that creates opportunities, and push for more companies to offer tuition help.

When President Biden said in 2022 that student debt should be canceled, I thought it could change lives. But lawsuits against the Department of Education have stalled everything, leaving borrowers stuck in a messy system. It’s frustrating to see progress halted. I believe loans should be forgiven because education shouldn’t be a trap. If I didn’t have tuition assistance, I’d be struggling too. Forgiving debt would let people buy homes, start families, or chase dreams without being chained to payments. Some say it’s unfair to those who paid off loans, but I think it’s about building a better future for everyone. Less debt means more people contributing to society, not just surviving.

College is no joke, though. Juggling work, classes, and life is brutal. Late nights, endless assignments, and moments of “Can I even do this?” hit hard. And not everyone’s thrilled about my progress. A few people—maybe jealous, maybe just skeptical—have made snarky comments or questioned why I’m bothering. It stings, but I brush it off and keep going. Their doubts just make me more determined.

Still, I’m pumped about what’s next. My business degree is opening doors I never thought possible—maybe a promotion, maybe my own company someday. I’m excited to use what I’m learning to make a difference. This whole experience has taught me to stay tough, stay grateful, and give back. I’m so thankful for my job’s support and the people in my corner. I want to pay it forward, help others get their shot, and fight for a system where education doesn’t break the bank. To everyone who’s got my back: thank you. To those still pushing for their dreams: don’t quit. We’re in this together.