Olá, pessoas! Tudo bem?

My name is Ashton Brown, a junior honors Economics major, Spanish minor studying at the illustrious Howard University. I have been blessed to be accepted into a study abroad program for the Spring 2025 semester, in which I will be studying in São Paulo, Brasil! I am the first and only student at my university to participate in this program, and the first of my entire family to study abroad.

I am exceedingly ecstatic to pursue a course of study at Fundação Getulio Vargas, the renowned institution that serves doubly as university and think tank (the #1 in Latin America, #7 worldwide). With a focus in economics, business, and public administration, this is the perfect place to further my pursuit of a career in global finance. The program also takes a sustainability focus, as I am deeply passionate about the environment. Interestingly, FGV shares a founding date with my birthday, December 20—making this opportunity feel even more special.

January 20, 2025 is my departure to São Paulo. The time before this is crucial for me to prepare as much as possible for the challenges that will come with studying. I am blessed to have a single parent that has exhausted their ability to financially support my study, and I am leaning on the amazing village of family they have built for me.

I have a goal of raising about $10,000. I humbly ask that you contribute any amount that you can (down to the cent) to help me pay for my:

All of these factors ensure that I can be safe and take the best advantage of my time abroad. Being able to comfortably afford them cannot happen without your help. I plan to keep you all updated with my time abroad through sending photos and videos. I will also be sure to personally thank every person that donates.

I can guarantee that this experience will be lifechanging. Studying at Fundação Getulio Vargas will uniquely position me to excel in a global finance career and give back to my community by sharing what I’ve learned.

While I am there, obviously I am representing myself, my university, and my country. However, I am most proud to be representing you and everyone that has supported me throughout my life. Thank you so much and I look forward to sharing this experience with all of you!

Here's more information about the program

TL;DR: I'm going to Brazil, and I need your help!