Of all the things I've spent money on, my education has to have cost me the most.

There is little else that I have spent so much on. I honestly could have purchased three BMWs with what I have spent in educational expenses. I drive a used Nissan.

Education is one of the most important things to me. My family moved to this country for a better life -- one where I would have the freedom to learn without economic repression.

The cost to earn my bachelor's, master's, and now doctoral degree is substantial. But the reward is priceless. To know that I have the opportunity to be blessed through my parents sacrifices are what drives me to continue, no matter the cost. --Adrian D. Riojas, Fort Worth, Tex.