Dance Education in Uganda

Michelle Cole is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Here's a quick overview of the project:

Participants collaborate with professional dancers, educators, and students from the Royal Ballet Academy and Makerere University. Students take classes in traditional Ugandan dance, East African drumming and teaching methodology with faculty from NYU Steinhardt and Makerere University. Participants then put theory into practice by developing and implementing lesson plans with children from local community-based organizations. This program offers unique access to education and performing arts institutions in Kampala and provides a new global perspective on dance, education and community development.

http://steinhardt.nyu.edu/study_abroad/programs/Dance_Uganda">Budget Breakdown:

Housing and Activity Fees: $1400
Travel Expenses: $1300-$1600
Tuition: $1422 per credit (3-credits, plus registration and service fees) = $4266+
Student Visa: $50
Grand Total: $7,316.00

Who I am:

My name is Michelle Cole. I am currently a graduate student at NYU Steinhardt in the Masters of Arts Dance Education Program. As I am a full-time student, it is difficult to work and focus on studies. This trip is so inspiring to me. I want to take the knowledge I gain from the teachers and students in Uganda and incorporate it in my own teaching style. I want to build my community developing skills and make myself not only an exceptional educator, but one that is culturally enriched and enlightened. This is the foundation I want to lay for myself. Traveling to different parts of the world, learning from experience and others and sharing my own knowledge. This way I will have not only the "schooling," but also the active involvement necessary to make a difference in other people's lives. It can all start here, with the Uganda trip.

Why $6316?

I went with the higher end of the plane ticket, because the prices are constantly rising so, $1600 added the Housing & Activity fees, $1400, and added the cost for tuition ($1422 x3), $4266, and $50 for my visa application. That brings us to a grand total of $7,316. I received a scholarship from the study abroad office of $1000, so that brings the total to $6,316.00.
**Even with the scholarship, that's still not enough. I would love to be able to expand my knowledge and abilities to teach and inspire others. Community is most important and it should always be at the forefront of our lives.

I have already paid a $400 deposit to secure my spot on the trip. November 20th the housing and activity fees are due. I have to order my visa at least a month and a half before the trip, so around the same time, November 20th. The longer I wait for my plane ticket, the more expensive, so I'll shoot for November 27th. Tuition is due December 4th. So that gives us about a month to raise everything.

Thank you all in advance and please tell your friends, family, or whomever else. I would really appreciate the support!