Lauren Ashcraft  🌹Compte certifié

My story is an example of why we need free (through federal funding) higher education. And immediate forgiveness of student loans. Please read this thread about my plan to ensure nobody is burdened for life for seeking an education 1/?

I studied International Relations and German at WVU and earned close to a full ride, tested out of the German major, worked as a cater waiter and was able to graduate in 3 years instead of 4, leaving me with a bit of savings to start grad school with. 2/?

I went to the University of Pittsburgh for a Master of Public Admin for close to a full ride and worked full-time at the US Dept of HUD as I studied. Because of my scholarships, language skills, and the workaholic stress I took on, I left school with savings and no debt. 3/?

I was so, so fortunate and this has impacted the rest of my life. While My experience is NORMAL in other countries, I am an exception here. That’s *ridiculous*. So here’s what I want to do to fight for equality for all of us: 4/?

Not only should we forgive and prevent student debt with free (federally funded) higher ed, but we need to grant those who have paid off their loans a CREDIT for doing so. Everyone should have the opportunity to invest in their future rather than be burdened by their past. 5/5