From Texas to Finland: Educational Study Abroad

Greetings Friends, Family, and Future Supporters,

My name is Karen Marshall, and I'm excited to share an incredible journey I'm embarking on—a journey that not only promises to enrich my academic career but also aims to contribute to our understanding of transformative education practices globally. I'm currently in the second year of my Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching, with a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction, at the University of Texas at San Antonio. This summer, I have the opportunity to study abroad in Jyväskylä, Finland, a country renowned for its innovative and student-focused educational system.

Why Finland?

Finland's approach to education is a beacon of inspiration worldwide, known for its ways of cultivating authentic and creative learning experiences for their students. My research delves into the integration of art, literacy, and learning—exploring how educational environments can foster authentic engagement and understanding through nature, arts-integrated teaching practices, and the pivotal role of play and sociocultural experiences. Having the opportunity to see how the Finnish educational model works to uplift the valuable educational experiences that I am interested in studying would be pivotal to my own learning.

The Journey Ahead

The program in Jyväskylä is not just an academic endeavor; it's an educational quest for global insights that can refine the way we think about teaching and learning. The costs associated with this unique opportunity with U.T.S.A. and the University of Jyväskylä total approximately $6000, covering airfare, accommodation, and travel expenses. Every contribution brings me a step closer to learning and exploring in Finland this summer.

How You Can Help

Your support, whether through a donation, sharing this campaign, or offering words of encouragement, means the world to me. Every bit of assistance not only fuels my journey but also supports the broader vision of enhancing educational practices for future generations.

Thank you for all of your support.

Respectfully,

Karen Marshall