This journey to Europe is not just a dream; it would be an out-of-body learning experience for me. It would be a way to grow, learn, and connect with the world on a deeper level. Like stepping stones, it would build up my education and possibly become a future career. By experiencing the art firsthand, I'll gain perspectives that will shape my studies and open doors for future opportunities.

Beyond my own growth, I want to bring back these experiences to my community. I plan to share what I learned through storytelling. I hope through my stories I can inspire others to step out of their comfort zones or just encourage anyone to take the time to appreciate the world of art.

I'm passionate about this trip because I can learn firsthand the history, importance, and beauty of each piece of art and architecture. Being in person, seeing these pieces that I have learned so much about in textbooks, would be so mesmerizing. Even just walking the streets where artists, thinkers, and leaders once stood would give me a sense of connection that I could never gain from textbooks alone.

This trip was teacher-organized, so I did not choose the destinations and places we'd visit. Though once word of the trip was announced, it ignited a fire in me, for I have always wanted to travel out of the country to experience the beauty of other parts of the world. I went through the process of applying, I went to meetings, wrote an essay, and got teacher recommendations. Just recently, I got news that I was picked among some other classmates to go. I do have to raise 5,939 dollars to go; that money would cover food, the way there and back, safe hotels, tour directors, and transportation. With the help of my family and community, I hope to raise/come up with the money to go. By supporting me and donating, you're not only helping me see the world, you're also helping me bring those lessons home where I can inspire others. Anything helps!

-Sincerely, Kaylee N.