Hi, my name is Maya. Studying abroad in Japan has been my dream since I was a kid. I’ve always loved the culture, the language, the food, and the feeling of peace I imagined I would have if I ever got the chance to visit. Japan has always been my favorite place in the world, even though I’ve never been able to go.

This past year has been one of the hardest years of my life. I’ve been working full-time while going to school full-time, and the stress eventually caught up to me. I ended up dropping classes and even failed one that I’m retaking now. On top of all the school pressure, family stress hit me even harder. My dad was recently diagnosed with a small mass in his lung. He refuses treatment and wants to handle it naturally, and every day I’m scared of what could happen. I try to save money for his medical needs, along with house bills, fixing my car, and basic responsibilities, but it feels like I’m constantly falling behind.

Because of all of this, I haven’t been able to take care of myself the way I should. Some days I struggle to even shower, cook, or focus. I push through work even though I’m mentally exhausted. I know I need a break, but I haven’t had the chance to breathe in a long time.

My study abroad trip to Japan represents something bigger than a vacation. It’s a chance for me to grow, to step outside the stress I’ve been drowning in, and to finally experience something that has kept me going for years. It’s a chance to learn, explore, and feel joy again.

I’ve been saving everything I can, but between bills, helping my family, and trying to stay afloat, I haven’t been able to put enough toward this opportunity. Asking for help is hard for me, but I’m at a place where I truly need it. Anything you contribute will bring me closer to a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’ve worked for and dreamed about for so long. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my story would still mean everything to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and support me in any way you can. I appreciate you more than you know.