Help Me Pursue My Dream – Studying in the U.S. & Playing College Ice Hockey!

My name is Oliver Kiel Straarup, I’m beyond excited to share that I’ve accepted an offer to study Biology & Biological Sciences at McKendree University, Illinois in the United States — and to top it all off, I’ve also made it onto the university’s Ice Hockey Team!

This is truly a dream come true. Combining my passion for Biology and my lifelong dedication to ice hockey in one place, is something I’ve worked incredibly hard for. As I take this monumental step forward, I’m filled with hope and excitement — but yet also concern.

The reality is, studying abroad comes with major financial challenges. To make this opportunity a reality and minimizing the expenses related, I need to raise funds to cover below:

• Tuition

• Housing & Living Costs

• Meals

• Books & Supplies

• Full-Year Health Insurance

• Travel to and from the U.S.

• A Christmas Trip Home to See My Family in Denmark

With a scholarship provided by the school, above still leaves me with a yearly amount of about 28260 USD, (equal to approx. 197.820 DKK), that I will have to cover myself.

I am passionate about both my sport and my education, and I see this as an investment in my future – both as a person and as an athlete.

I am trying to raise money via funds etc. but there’s no guarantee that it will be accepted or provided to me.

Without financial support, I risk graduating with a huge debt at the end of the 4-year program — something I’m trying hard to avoid, so I can focus fully on learning, training, and growing.

So, I’m reaching out to friends, family, extended connections, my parents’ colleagues, and companies who might be willing to help.

I hope that I will manage to raise as much as possible and start my fundraising at 100.000 DKK.

Whether you can contribute financially or simply share my story, your support means the world to me. Every little bit helps and brings me one step closer to achieving my goals.

Thank you so much for believing in me and being part of this journey.

With gratitude,

Oliver Kiel Straarup