Help DeAnna experience “A Semester at Sea”

Let me start by introducing myself. I am DeAnna Faison, a 20 yr old college student that is prepping for my junior year. I am starting this page to raise money because I just found out that my hard work paid off and I was accepted to the semester at sea program. This is something I have dreamed about. The boat will allow me to travel to 10 countries, 11 cities and 3 continents all in 105 days while I continue my educational studies.

Here’s my story. I was raised with my sisters in Long Island by my single mother. She worked so hard to protect and provide for us, but it definitely wasn’t easy. Unfortunately, she had to go back-and-forth to court to battle the “system” and keep me safe from my biological father and his bad choices in life.

When I was in sixth grade the court went against my mom and forced me to go on a visit with him. That’s when my childhood changed! I became a victim of domestic violence. This happened because the New York State Court system simply wouldn’t listen to me explain to them that I didn’t want to go because I didn’t feel safe. Thankfully, my mom came to my rescue and with the help, comfort and guidance of my middle school principal, my teachers and my family I never had to experience that horror again.

Through high school I worked so hard because I knew I wanted to go to college and then attend law school. I felt I needed to do this to help make sure no child would ever experience the trauma I did and I’m continuously haunted by.

In 2022 I graduated high school with an advanced regents diploma and $90,000 in academic scholarships to the college I currently attend.

Let’s fast-forward to now!! Here we are going into year three and I have this opportunity to experience the world, learn different cultures, spread my story and conquer another dream. At first I was embarrassed to start this but then I realized there is nothing wrong with asking for help. I more than appreciate any amount you can donate to help make this possible and contribute to the expenses for myself and my mom.

I plan on sharing my journey with all of you through social media. This is a once in a lifetime experience that kids like me usually don’t get. I want to let the children of the future see that you can accomplish anything with hard work and perseverance!

(Although my mom didn’t want me to start this page because of her own personal feelings, she finally gave me her blessing, is proud of me and supports my journey.)