<prompt> Human: Some background: Im 20, my mom died when I was 10, I havent been in contact with my dad for 2 yearsI was told to go to the financial aid office to talk to them about my situation and they gave me a form to return with some documentation. I need a personal letter explaining my situation, the death certificate of my mother, and another third from an unbiased third party such as a counselor, school teacher, clergy, etc. The issue is the third part. I could have every single one of my family members write a letter detailing the situation, but Ive never seen a therapist. Ive never opened up to a teacher, or doctor, sports coach, etc. Ive spent most of my life pretty bottled up about things. I dont know what to do, I need to get it turned in by monday if possible because classes start soon. What do you guys recommend I do? I told the lady at the office I dont know anyone that im not related to thats aware of the situation. Would a good friends parent work? Thanks for any advice you have!  <response>: My best guess is that they want someone that knows you in a relevant capacity that is maybe somewhat objective. For example, sometimes banks will ask for a letter regarding proof of identity on large personal loans, and you can get it from a lawyer, doctor, banker, or engineer because the idea is that these are people that all have professional licenses and therefore are less likely to lie.If the point is an unbiased third party, then I dont know if a friends parent would help, it sounds like they want someone that has an objective relationship with you, but if thats the best you can do, I would try to find a good friend who has a parent that is a professional of some kind instead of a homemaker or someone who has a less verifiable position. 