Send a Sex Educator (MPH student) to study abroad in Japan!

Hello my lovely community~

This fall, I will be starting my Masters through the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health. I was recently accepted to attend a course in Japan (Tokyo, Kobe, Kyoto) studying community nutrition through shokuiku (food education). This opportunity alone would meet four credits for the time and work I would be completing abroad in just TWO weeks.

You may ask, "how does Helen's work as a Sex Educator have anything to do with studying abroad?" Thankfully, my work within sexual and reproductive health encompasses wellness through a holistic lens-- understanding how our social and cultural make up, as well as our relationship to food impacts how we connect with others, build community, and affirm our sense of self!

I have never had an opportunity to study abroad, and when this program popped up there was so much that stood out to me, but more importantly, food as an early childhood education practice.

We will be attending lectures with local lawmakers, touring elementary schools and senior centers (and enjoying lunch!) implementing cultural responsive food programs, touring farms focusing on sustainable agriculture, attending a tea ceremony, exploring farmers markets, and so much more!

Given the short timeline, many deadlines are past due for applications for scholarships and grants, and my financial aid will over cover so much.

As we all know, higher education is expensive, and doing it abroad is even more so. I’m looking to raise 2,200 to start, with the goal of 5,500.

- $500 will cover the PSU Education Abroad Fee

- $3,000 will cover the International Program Fee

- $2,000 will cover International lodging, meals and Insurance.

2025 has been so generous to me and Noah (to say simply), and this opportunity to study abroad would be the cherry to the end of my year, and dive head first into my Masters of Public Health.

If you are curious about this amazing program and it's impact, please be sure to click this link .

Thank you for showing me so much love and support through my education

All my care and love,

~Helen