Once In A Lifetime Opportunity in Africa

I am turning to Go Fund Me and my friends to raise the remaining funds needed to make a once in a lifetime dream, a reality. I have been given a tremendous opportunity to study African Literature and to take part in an amazing service learning program in Capetown South Africa. I am down to the wire here and still need 1500.00 to reach my goal. Cutoff date is March 13th. I know it is short notice but I was hoping I could raise the funds on my own, unfortunately time got away from me because of my crazy schedule.

For those who may not know me I am almost 42, a full time college student and I work full time as a reporter for a local newspaper. I am the sole provider for a family of six, so finances are very limited. 

I am working towards a degree in Mass Communications at Motlow Community College. I received a partial scholarship to study abroad this summer in S. Africa. My education experiences at Motlow and the opportunities offered through the study abroad program have been amazing. Five years ago I would not have imagined that I would be in college, let alone an honors student in college, and I certainly never would have dreamed that I would have an opportunity to study overseas.

I graduate in May and will be the first in my family to receive a college degree. I will be moving on to MTSU in the fall, and have applied to the Honors College where I will work towards my bachelors and eventually my Masters. I absolutely love school and the change I have seen in myself as a result of my accomplishments.

My future goal is to build a niche for myself in the communications field working in digital media, public relations, writing, photography and eventually perhaps even film. My dream job would include working with individual's state side and internationally helping them to set and reach goals, realize their full potential and see that their dreams are within their reach. Whether that would be through working with a local women's shelter, in international education, as a global ambassador for a NGO, or through my own non-profit, the goal is the same. To reach out to those most in need to help them find and live their passion.

Any international experience I can get would not only be an opportunity for educational and personal growth, but would go a long way in helping me realize my own dreams of helping others and making a difference in the world. 

All funds collected will go to pay for the study abroad trip. If wish to make a donation but want to pay it directly to the institution I can supply that information for you.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me in my educational pursuits and in my study abroad endeavors. I love you all.

Tina Shang