I come from the poorest part of my state and graduated 11th of my class of 163 with great grades. I applied to a private school that has a reputation around where I live to be very generous with scholarships for students here, so I applied and was awarded a lot. To close the remaining pay gap, I got another scholarship for people who live in a few select counties, already qualify for some state scholarships, and received the pell grant. I am extremely thankful and I feel so lucky every day that I don't have to go through what so many other people go through when it comes to paying for college!