At the beginning of my senior year in high school, I began applying to the University of Connecticut. But what I didn’t realize was how expensive my dream was. I came from a middle-class family, and it seemed as though we’d always struggled to make ends meet.

I wasn’t the smartest person in my class, not even close; but my heart was in the right place, and I was determined. I applied for every scholarship I could. And then my guidance counselor told me about the financial aid system. I applied, but I didn’t think I would qualify for that either.

After the holidays, my friends started receiving their acceptance letters from colleges, and I eagerly expected mine. Finally, a letter arrived from the University of Connecticut. Feelings of fear and joy overwhelmed me when I opened the envelope with trembling hands. I had done it! I cried for a while, feeling both extremely excited and afraid. I had been working a full-time job, but that wasn’t enough to pay for tuition, and it was impossible for my parents to pay for my education.

Months went by before a letter from the financial aid office arrived. I opened it eagerly, but it was only a letter requesting more information to process my application. This happened over and over, and my hopes kept getting shot down. Finally, an envelope arrived, the one that would determine whether I could attend college. Not only was financial aid (助学金) going to help me out with my expenses, but also I won two of the scholarships I had applied for! I had actually made my dream come true.

I am now a junior at the University of Connecticut, pursuing a degree in English.

【小题1】What was the author’s main trouble in realizing her dream?

A．She lacked determination.

B．Her family was short of money.

C．She didn’t know which university to apply to.

D．Her parents disapproved of her attending university.

【小题2】How did the author get money for her tuition fees?

A．By taking up part-time jobs.

B．By receiving her parents’ support.

C．By turning to her guidance counselor for help.

D．By applying for scholarships and financial aid.

【小题3】Why did the financial aid office send the author the first letter?

A．To test her determination.

B．To inform her of their refusal.

C．To ask for supplemental information.

D．To check the process of her application.

【小题4】What does the underlined word “overwhelmed” mean in paragragh 3?

A．Affected strongly.

B．Defeated completely.

C．Covered completely.

D．Overcame easily.

【小题5】What does the author want to convey by sharing her story?

A．Never say never.

B．More haste, less speed.

C．Aiming higher, achieving more.

D．Pride hurts, modesty benefits.