Hi friends, I am very/extremely/PROFOUNDLY bad at both asking for help and making myself sound cool. I now have to attempt to do both. (*cracks knuckles*) Buckle up.

If we've never met, hi, my name is Abby Walburn, and I'm a 26-year-old actor-person in Chicago who is about to become a 27-year-old actor-person in the United Kingdom. I am one of eight students accepted into East 15 Acting School's International MFA program for 2021. (*jazz hands*)

East 15 Acting School (East 15) is a British drama school in Loughton, Essex. It was established in 2000 and has consistently been ranked as one of the UK's top drama schools since its founding. I am shocked and delighted to have been offered a place.

East 15's curriculum includes several incredible opportunities, including a brief residency and performance at Shakespeare's Globe and a trip to Moscow to study Russian theater. However, what is most significant to me is the opportunity to learn with a truly international cohort. I think the thing that makes acting a noble profession is the endeavor to reimagine our world through art, and I am excited to do that alongside my future classmates.

I recognize just how hard the last year has been on EVERYONE. It is with this in mind that I ask only for what I know I need.

Your generosity helps with:

• Visa application fees
• Course fees
• Passport fees
• NHS enrollment fee
• Flight cost
• Flat down payment
• Necessities upon arrival in the UK (kitchenware, public transit pass, Guinness, etc.)

I know there are many other worthy causes you could be donating to, but if you can spare anything, I would be immensely grateful.

In the immortal words of Lady Gaga talking about Bradly Cooper: "There can be a hundred people in the room, and 99 don't believe in you, but all it takes is one person who does. And that changes everything."

Please be my Bradley Cooper(s).