Dear friends and family,

Some of you may know that it has been a dream of mine to visit Spain since I was 12 years old. I am beyond thrilled to share with you that I recently got accepted into a program called the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE). This is a study abroad program that will allow me to travel to Palma de Mallorca, Spain for a month this Summer. I am very eager to study, learn, and immerse myself in the Spanish language and culture. I will even receive foreign language college credit for my work during this trip! This truly is a dream come true for me and I can’t wait to join in on Spanish life and traditions.

Not only was it an honor to be accepted into the program, but I was even more fortunate to be awarded a $3500 scholarship which has covered half the program cost! However, as you can imagine there are still significant remaining expenses: the rest of the program cost, my plane ticket, passport, and a little bit of spending money for activities and sangria (kidding! I meant gelato) while I’m over there.

My overall known expenses amount to almost $5000. The good news is that I’ve been working hard and saving my own money for this trip for over 4 years now and I have about $2500 of my own to contribute (that was a lot of babysitting!). This leaves a remainder of about $3000 that I need to raise by my upcoming deadline of April 1st (this is the date that airfare must be purchased and the balance for the program is also due). With some extra incase there are unforeseen expenses or being able to help purchase items that may be necessary for my stay.

And this is where I am hoping to get your assistance. I am reaching out to ask for your support in making this incredible opportunity a reality. If you are able to contribute a financial gift, it will go straight toward covering my remaining expenses. I, of course, am not only asking for donations. I am also willing to work for your money! If you are local and need any help babysitting, pet sitting, or would like to employ my ever-developing baking skills, I’d be happy to make you a delicious dessert. I am beyond willing to put in time and energy to help make this trip a reality. Any support you give, big or small, will bring me closer to achieving my goal. Your support goes beyond just financial assistance; it also means the world to me emotionally. Knowing that I have your encouragement will give me the confidence I need to reach my goal.

If you are able to contribute, please donate through my GoFundMe page. If you are unable to contribute at this time, I completely understand, and I would be grateful for your emotional support and prayers; I’m so excited, and also a little nervous for such a big adventure all on my own!

Thank you for considering my request. I am excited to share my study abroad adventures with you and look forward to staying in touch!

Muchas muchas gracias,

Adelaide Riley