Education Abroad

Hi, I’m Kayla!

Why I started a “Go Fund Me”: 
I recently received the amazing news that my dream to study abroad is about to come true!  New Zealand has always been on my bucket list for places to experience, and once I found out it was a possible destination to study?!?! It’s safe to say my mind and heart was set. However, I found out that in order to even apply for my student visa I need proof that the course fees can be paid right away, and that I have enough money to support me while away. I hope to study there for a year, so that means I need enough funds to pay for all 10 courses, along with rent and food. With that being said, I have some savings (and hopefully some support from student loans), but I am still very short from the required (and additionally recommended) funds. On top of that, I have two fur babies I am taking with me that require shots, paperwork, and transportation arrangements. 

About me:
- I live with my sister and her boyfriend in a two bedroom apartment. I moved in with them because the commute to school was approximately an hour and a half. Since I also work while in school, I could not afford to miss work just because the commute was too long. So we moved near downtown to help cut down the amount of time to get school and back. 
- I love living an active life! Currently my body is loving yoga. In the past I had a few injuries that prevented me from other sports I used to play, but through this yoga my body has started to heal! 
- I have two fur babies named Gaia and Nyx. I grew up with dogs my whole life and for some reason decided to get cats, but I am so happy I did because these two have made the student life a lot less stressful.

Academics:
- In 2019 I received first class standing for my academic achievement at Grant Macewan University. Recently I have transferred to the University of Alberta into the Faculty of Education (secondary), where I major in Social Studies, and minor in Biological Sciences. 

My Future Goal:
- In the future, I hope to teach in various countries. I think it’s extremely important for educators to experience other cultures and education systems so they are open minded, and aware of cultural differences. Inclusive, open minded, diverse education is needed in order for students to truly connect with what they are learning, and the people they are surrounded with. 

Volunteering:
- Coached junior high senior women’s volleyball for many years.
- Was a teaching assistant for two weeks. 
- Volunteer at my yoga studio and the attached cafe.
- Tutored junior high science and grade 10 mathematics. 

Financial Plan:
- I currently work part time as a server, but saving up is difficult as I also pay rent, insurance, and other various bills. 
- Over the summer I plan on picking up 2 more jobs to help save up for this opportunity. 

If you made it to the end:
Thank you so much for taking the time to consider helping me out! Any contribution helps me reach my goal, so thank you in advance!