Hailey's Summer Abroad with National Geographic

Greetings! My name is Hailey Chanler, and I am from Taos, New Mexico. In my life I have always been adventurous. Hiking, biking,  kayaking, skiing, and even spelunking are activities I am excited about, including doing art.


 I auditioned to the New Mexico School for the Arts in Santa Fe last year for visual arts. At this school, I stay in a dorm to attend school five days a week. This transition has impacted my life, making me stronger and more independent. My academics classes have pushed me to embrace my curiosity and to apply myself. Including my visual art classes, my teachers are helping me to express my passion for art. By giving me the foundation and working towards my goals. I have learned and grown so much over the past year. 


This year, I have been more interested in photography and how it captivates and moves an audience. Recently I won first place in a photo contest.This experience makes me wonder what it would be like to be in the shoes of a National Geographic photographer. To travel, learn, and experience this opportunity will awaken the possibilities of art and culture. 

 
Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam are gorgeous, breathtaking, and unique. I want to see and capture the beauty, expanding my knowledge of the culture and wildlife through photography. I want to experience my five senses in a different place. I will gain a global awareness by increasing my appreciation of what I have. This trip will stimulate my imagination, creativity, and expand my art in new dimensions.

I want to personally thank you for any and all donations however big or small. Every penny gets me one step closer to realizing this amazing opportunity!