Study Abroad trip to Thailand

    I am pleased to announce that after a successful first year at Alcorn State University, I've decided to take advantage of an opportunity to study abroad in Bangkok,Thailand during the upcoming fall semester, and I need your help.
    Abroad, I will be studying both of my majors: Nutrition and Biology. I chose to study abroad in Thailand mainly because it's a great place to study nutrition, having the best community nutrition program in Asia. However, this semester will be more about the education that will take place beyond the classroom. I will have the chance to explore Thailand’s many attractions from the floating markets to the sacred temples. The program includes two excursions to Ko-Samet Island and Northern Thailand. If financially endowed, I will also have the opportunity to travel with my peers from Thailand to surrounding countries like Malaysia, Japan, India, or even Egypt.
      The world extends much further than “sea to shining sea”… therefore in order to truly expand your horizon one must immerse themselves in different cultures and ways of life. Considering that my end goal is to provide healthcare in developing nations, beyond expanding my horizon, it is important for me to gain the skills of adaptation, communication, and networking with people from other cultural backgrounds.
Studying Abroad will be a large milestone in the process of making my dreams come true. Although my mind has been made up for some time now, many times when I talk about my long term goal of working in developing countries people try to discourage me. Many people believe that I don’t have what it takes to live in a foreign country, much less in a developing area. Family members continuously encourage me to pursue goals that are more “practical”. As a first generation college student from Detroít’s inner city, it’s easy to believe that I can only reach certain heights. There were times where my dreams of studying abroad and working abroad seemed to be “out of the question”. This is the beginning of me proving to myself that my career goals are obtainable.
    Due to my academic success prior to this opportunity, I’ve received a scholarship that will cover my tuition and housing during my semester in Thailand. However, this means that I am responsible for my meals, travel fees, books, and school supplies. Not to mention, an emergency fund is eminent in case of unforeseen circumstances. With your contributions not only can I successfully and safely study abroad, but I can make the most out of this once in a lifetime experience.