Education has the power to transform lives, yet for many Native American students, pursuing higher education presents significant challenges. Financial barriers and limited resources often make earning a degree feel out of reach. The American Indian Education Fund® (AIEF), a program of Partnership With Native Americans® (PWNA), is dedicated to helping Native students overcome these obstacles by providing scholarships and essential support. One such student is Kevin, whose growth and commitment to his family motivated him to find his passion. 

Kevin grew up in Bremerton, Washington, a small town with limited opportunities. Seeking better job prospects, Kevin moved to Phoenix, Arizona, with a friend in 2018 when he was 24 years old. The two shared a one-bedroom apartment, alternating between the couch and the bed just to make things work. During this time, Kevin knew he wanted to pursue higher education, but he wasn’t sure what direction to take. 

“I went to college a little bit, but I didn’t take it that seriously when I was in Washington,” Kevin admitted. “I really didn’t know what I wanted to study. I knew I liked math and science, so I started taking math classes.” 

Once settled in Phoenix, Kevin decided to return to school, ultimately choosing to major in Mechanical Engineering. His path wasn’t straightforward, and he experienced some uncertainty about his career direction before finding his passion in engineering. “I knew that I wanted to go to school. I kind of knew what I wanted to study. I didn’t really decide on engineering until after my first semester back,” Kevin explained. 

This time around, Kevin approached his education with renewed dedication. “I’ve developed a new work ethic,” he shared. “I take it upon myself to study over the breaks, which is something I didn’t do before.” 

To manage costs, Kevin completed his first two years at a community college before transferring to continue his Mechanical Engineering degree. As a member of the Nez Perce Tribe, Kevin explored scholarship opportunities for Native students and was awarded an AIEF scholarship for the 2024-2025 school year. 

“Worrying about how you’re going to pay for college is a big burden,” Kevin said. “The scholarship definitely helps. Their support is much appreciated by students like me. Education does come along with a big financial burden, and it helps to ease that burden. Thank you.” 

Kevin also appreciated the additional support AIEF provided. “I really like AIEF. I applied for multiple scholarships this semester, and AIEF was the only one who sent care packages with notebooks, cleaning supplies—practical items. I really liked that. It feels like AIEF cares about the people.” 

Kevin’s dedication extends beyond academics. Between being a full-time student, working part-time, and raising a family, he juggles numerous responsibilities. Kevin is committed to supporting his long-time partner and his 11-year-old stepdaughter, striving to build a better future for them. After graduation, Kevin hopes to enter the workforce and possibly pursue a master’s degree. His long-term goal is to open his own engineering firm to provide for his family and create opportunities for others. 

Kevin’s journey highlights the importance of education in building stronger livelihoods for Native students and future leaders. Thanks to AIEF donors, Kevin is able to pursue his dreams and create a brighter future. Donate to AIEF today to help ensure Native students have the resources they need to succeed.