For lower-middle class students, college isn’t a straight forward subject. Despite not qualifying for the scholarships and grants that some low-income students may qualify for, their families still frequently don’t make enough to pay the often six digit price tag associated with a four year degree.

First generation college student Erika Hernandez knows this well, as it resulted in her having to leave school after her first year, working multiple jobs, paying off debt, and fighting tooth and nail to get back to school to earn her degree.

Watch the video and read Erika’s full story here.