Denise Kittle

I am a College Student because of the Internet

Net Neutrality is essential to free speech, equal opportunity and economic innovation in America. Since the FCC removed this basic protection in 2005, the top executives of phone and cable companies have stated their intention to become the Internet's gatekeepers and to discriminate against Web sites that don't pay their added tolls.

This fundamental change would end the open Internet as we know it. It would damage my ability to connect with others, share information and participate in our 21st century democracy and economy. The FCC must ensure that broadband providers do not block, interfere with or discriminate against any lawful Internet traffic based on its ownership, source or destination.

As a 52 year old full time working mother of two, I have never before had the time or ability to attend college, and earn my college degree. Now, thanks to a free and open internet, I am a full time student at the University of Phoenix, and just two semesters away from achieving my lifelong dream. Once I have earned my Associates Degree, I am planning to go on to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and from there...who knows? This opportunity has given me the chance of a lifetime, to learn, to grow and to become a better mother, employee and citizen. Please do not take this opportunity away from me.