How Terrah Garner is Revolutionizing Access to College Financial Aid

Many young women—and young people in general—face significant financial strain when attending college. Most students must choose between pursuing higher education with the burden of student loan debt or giving up their dreams altogether. However, this should not be the case. Terrah Garner, the founder of Danalize, a national financial aid advocacy service, and a Barnard College student, is working to solve the prevalent issue of educational inequity.

A Personal Journey Toward Change

Terrah Garner is a first-generation, low-income rising sophomore at Barnard College, Columbia University. Like many high school students worldwide, she navigated the college application process without mentors to guide her through the financial aid system. Unaware of financial aid packages and available scholarships, she struggled with the overwhelming process alone, feeling “financially illiterate.” These challenges were the catalyst for her founding of Danalize.

The Birth of Danalize

Danalize is a financial advocacy and college counseling service designed to empower low-income students. The organization provides a financial aid template that enables students to appeal for more aid and secure better funding from their institutions if their financial needs are not met. Inspired by her own experiences, Terrah created Danalize to offer students the critical resources she lacked as a high school applicant and to help them navigate the complex and ever-changing world of college financial aid.

A major breakthrough for Danalize came when Terrah created a TikTok video explaining how to effectively appeal for additional financial aid. The video gained over 500,000 views, resonating with students who faced similar struggles. As a result, Danalize has supported students in over six countries, helping them successfully appeal for improved financial aid packages. In fact, one of Danalize’s templates alone has contributed to students securing a cumulative $100,000 in additional aid.

Setbacks and Overcoming Adversity

Starting an organization in an underrepresented space comes with challenges. Terrah shares how, at times, her efforts were dismissed, and Danalize was not taken seriously. However, she remained steadfast in her mission, emphasizing that believing in oneself—especially when others do not—is key to success. Her journey reflects the resilience of many great female leaders who have defied expectations and pushed forward despite obstacles.

A Voice for Change

Terrah Garner’s story is a testament to the power of advocacy, determination, and self-belief. Through Danalize, she has transformed her struggles into a movement that empowers students globally. By providing financial literacy tools and resources, she is ensuring that others no longer have to navigate the financial aid process alone. Her work is a reminder that one person’s voice can spark change and open doors for many others.

As Terrah continues to expand Danalize, her impact on education equity grows. With more students gaining access to the financial aid they deserve, she is proving that no one should have to choose between higher education and financial stability. Her story is not just one of overcoming adversity but of paving the way for future generations to access the education they dream of without the weight of financial barriers.