Just one semester away from graduation, the support of the NYC STEM Talent Fund and the Last Mile community provided a network of mentors, alumni, and advocates who helped me reach the finish line and beyond.
This post is a special contribution from Delgardo Hutchinson, shared in partnership with the Last Mile Education Fund. Delgardo's story reflects the kind of impact that near-completion financial support can have on a student's path to graduation -- exactly the mission behind MAA's upcoming National Math Talent Fund. Launching in early August, the National Math Talent Fund will provide critical financial support to mathematics students in their final stretch toward a degree. [Learn more.] [Become an ambassador.]
Crossing the finish line of my final semester would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Last Mile team. Their investment did more than help me afford to stay enrolled. It gave me the confidence and belief I needed to graduate stress-free. At a time when everything felt uncertain, having a group of people step in and say that they believed in my ability to finish meant everything. During my final semester, I unexpectedly lost my financial aid.
As a mathematics student, I had already completed most of my major requirements, which put me in a difficult position. I did not have enough remaining required credits to qualify for full-time financial aid, but I still needed to be enrolled to graduate. That meant paying out of pocket for courses that were not fully covered, which quickly became a financial burden I was not prepared for. It was a frustrating situation because I was so close to knowing this could delay everything I had worked toward.
I attended a NYC STEM Talent Fund information session hosted through Last Mile. It was an introduction to a larger support system where I learned about resources available to students at every stage, from those just starting college to seniors preparing to graduate, and even recent alumni jumping into the workforce. It immediately stood out to me because it directly addressed the kind of situation I was facing. Afterwards, I submitted my application and made sure to clearly explain my circumstances. I spoke about how close I was to completing my degree and how a financial gap at that stage could set me back significantly.
The application process itself was thorough, which made me respect the program even more. Last Mile takes the time to verify our needs by reviewing academic records, financial standing, and personal statements. Here, I realized that it is about understanding each student’s journey and making sure the support goes where it can truly make an impact. From attending the initial information session to completing the application, going through the screening and interview process, and ultimately receiving approval, everything moved quickly. In about four weeks, I went from feeling uncertain to having the support I needed to move forward. For the first time in a while, I could focus fully on my coursework instead of constantly worrying about finances. That mental clarity allowed me to finish strong and approach my final semester with confidence.
What made the experience even more meaningful was that the support did not stop there. Last Mile continued to stay connected, inviting me to events to engage with a broader community. Through these events, I was able to network and meet professionals from a variety of industries who were genuinely interested in supporting students and alumni. I had the chance to discuss career paths, challenges, and opportunities.
At events like the NYC Alumni Celebration, I had the chance to meet other fellows and alumni who had gone through similar experiences. Hearing their stories was powerful, knowing that some had faced financial challenges like mine, while others had overcome different obstacles on their path to graduation. Listening to how they navigated those situations and where they are now gave me a sense of motivation and reminded me that the challenges we face do not define us.
I also had the opportunity to attend a Last Mile Champions Board Meeting, where I shared my story and connected with professionals who are deeply invested in the mission of the program. Being in that space allowed me to not only reflect on my own journey, but also to practice articulating it in a way that could inspire others. One of the most impactful aspects of these events was the ability to build relationships with mentors. They offered advice, shared their own career journeys, and in some cases provided guidance on how to navigate the early stages of my career. As someone who is now working to build a professional path, having access to that kind of mentorship is incredibly valuable.
Last Mile fully emphasizes the importance of leveraging the network we have built, reaching out, asking questions, and building connections that can support your growth. That mindset has stayed with me and continues to shape how I approach opportunities today.
To me, the NYC STEM Talent Fund represents much more than financial assistance. It represents a commitment to students who are close to the finish line but need that final push, and a community that believes in investing in people academically, personally, and professionally as well. There are many individuals who are just as capable and just as driven, but may not have the resources or network to help them navigate difficult situations.
Being part of Last Mile showed me what is possible when that gap is filled and reinforces the importance of programs like this and the role they play in creating more opportunities for students. Without the support from the Last Mile team, there is a real possibility that my graduation would have been delayed.
More importantly, I did not just leave with a diploma. I left with a network, a community, and a renewed belief in what is possible when people come together to support each other.
Delgardo Hutchinson is a recent Lehman College graduate, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Actuarial Science. As a recipient of support from the NYC STEM Talent Fund, he is passionate about mentorship, educational access, and helping students overcome barriers to achieve their academic and professional goals
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