Help Jen get approved for her Veterans Affairs Disability education funding to attend the American Film Institute to pursue a Master in Fine Arts in Screenwriting.

I don't need money, just support.

I was found entitled to VA disability education benefits that would allow me to go to school to complete my MFA, but when the VA denied my school due to high-cost, I was heartbroken. And they didn't just deny me to attend AFI in Fall 2025. The decision, if not appealed, is upheld indefinitely due to the way it was written.

My BS Degree in Film Production is nationally accredited so I am already limited in where I can pursue my MFA. This was not taken into account when the VA made their decision.

For anyone who has ever had to file a disability claim, you probably know how difficult it can be to win your claim. There is a lengthy approval process, and the agency typically wants to save money. "Pick something else," they said. But, I can't. I write and I make films.

VA Disability Benefits are governed by statutory laws and there is one that is the most important. It states:

38 U.S. Code § 3100 - Purposes

The purposes of this chapter are to provide for all services and assistance necessary to enable veterans with service-connected disabilities to achieve maximum independence in daily living and, to the maximum extent feasible, to become employable and to obtain and maintain suitable employment.

By signing my petition, you are helping me protect my 14th Amendment right to due process, my rights as a disabled military veteran under the 38 U.S. Codes signed into law by Congress, and showing support for my academic and professional journey.

Another way you can help is to write and sign a letter of support. Letters will be included in my case file to support my disability claim. For more information about my claim and ways you can assist, please feel free to reach out to me at jennifer.pirante@gmail.com