u/0k49_800m3r — reddlx

I’m 18 and currently trying to figure out how to pay for a dental assistant program while also attending college full-time and working a part-time minimum wage job.

I didn’t qualify for FAFSA aid because my dad and stepmom’s income is too high, even though I don’t receive financial support from them. My dad originally said he would help pay for my dental assistant classes, but he changed his mind, so I’m now responsible for covering it myself.

I’ve saved money from my job, but it’s still not enough to cover the full cost of the program. I also applied for a loan but was denied due to not having enough credit history. I tried Affirm as well, but I was also rejected because my income isn’t high enough.

I’m trying to get into dental assisting because I need clinical experience for my long-term goal of becoming a doctor, and also to have a stable source of income while I work through my bachelor’s degree.

Right now I feel stuck because I don’t qualify for financial aid, can’t get approved for financing, and don’t have family support anymore. I’m just trying to figure out what realistic options I have left or what people in a similar situation would do.

I’m 18 and graduating high school in May 2026 while also attending college full-time. I work part-time at TJMaxx making minimum wage. I was originally told I’d get financial help from my dad for my dental assistant program, but he changed his mind, so now I’m fully responsible for paying for it.

I’m a first-generation American and the first in my family to go to college, and I’m trying to build a different future than the poverty I grew up in. I’ve saved some money, but it’s not enough to cover everything.

I also don’t have a car or reliable transportation. I walk everywhere, about 45–50 minutes between school, home, and work, even in 100–110°F desert heat. I was saving for a car, but now I’m stuck trying to balance both goals with limited income. This would go directly toward my education and allow me to keep working toward getting a car. Anything truly makes a difference.