Dear family and friends,

My name is Colton Lobianco, and I am writing to humbly ask for your support as I prepare to embark on a study abroad journey. Next fall, I have been given the opportunity to study in Barcelona, Spain, as part of the Council International Educational Exchange (CIEE) Business + Culture Program.

As a third-year undergraduate student at the College of Charleston, this opportunity will allow me to expand my horizons, meet new people, and experience a new culture in a way that cannot be achieved within the confines of a classroom. Not only will I improve my language skills, but I will also gain a deeper understanding of the global community and my place within it.

However, I must admit that the financial burden of this program is significant. With a total cost of $19,950 I am hoping to raise $10,000 to cover half of the program expenses. The proceeds will be applied first to cover my housing costs, and any remaining amount will be applied to educational costs.

Below is a breakdown of the program costs:

- Participation Confirmation = $300

- Educational Costs = $14,983

- Housing = $4,500

- Insurance = $167

- Total Cost: $19,950

I am reaching out to you because your support will make a significant difference in helping me achieve this dream. Any amount you can contribute would be greatly appreciated. Even a small donation will go a long way in making this journey a reality.

For those who do decide to donate, I will send out pictures and updates from the trip once I return, so you can see the impact you had on my life and everything I came across while abroad.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, and for considering supporting me in this journey. Your generosity means the world to me.

Warm regards,

Colton Lobianco

If you would like to learn more about the program, please visit this website: https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/college-study-abroad/programs/spain/barcelona/business-culture#course-info