Research in Cambodia

Hi everyone!!

Last year I was able to go to Cambodia as a study abroad student, and this summer I have been given the opportunity to return in order to do my own personal research.  The only catch is that I have to provide my own travel expenses.  Since I am a graduating senior, I do not qualify for funding through the school. So, I am reaching out to you, family and friends, to help me out. 

One evening, I was watching the "Half the Sky" documentary and I learned about the Somaly Mam Foundation which is a nonprofit organization committed to ending modern slavery and empowering its survivors as part of the solution. I agree when they say "human trafficking, a multi-billion dollar industry, is the fastest growing criminal enterprise in the world [and] with an estimated two million women and children sold into sexual slavery each year, it is a global crisis that must be stopped."  I was truly inspired by Somaly Mam, and if I am able to return to Cambodia I will make it my mission to help the foundation in any way that I can.

I cannot promise a published paper, or even that I will have first-hand encounters with any of the girls there, but I can promise to come back with more knowledge about the issue and more knowledge about what can be done to make this issue of trafficking (especially with young girls) less prevalent, not only in Cambodia, but here at home as well.

I am graduating in May, and if I am able to travel to Cambodia again I would be departing right after graduation. I am asking that in lieu of graduation gifts that you would please give a contribution so that I may go abroad and study and research something that I am truly passionate about.

I thank you all and I hope that I have your support.