My name is Hannah-Marie P. Garcia, daughter of Regina and Reymundo Garcia. I am currently studying at the University of the South: Sewanee and a past graduate of The Lawrenceville School, Class of 2015. Here at Sewanee I have declared an Environmental Studies and Sustainability major with Anthropology minor. When first applying to colleges, I knew that at least one semester of my education would be spent abroad. 

My passion for the environment, opportunities to travel and desire to experience new cultures has gotten me further than I ever anticipated. As a young woman, I aspire to make a difference in the world as a global citizen. Fortunately, I have traveled to places never imagined and have gained higher education with the encouragement from all of you.

Thank you to all of you no matter how small the interaction, the impact you have had on my life, know you are the reason I work so hard.


This September, as a junior, I am proud to say that I will be part of the S-276 Class of SEA Semester. I was one of 50-selected nation wide to be a part of SEA Semester: The Global Ocean program. This program takes place in and off the coast of New Zealand in the Pacific Ocean (Auckland › Kawau › Russell › Napier › Auckland. Port stops subject to change). I have provided links and photos for information here.

http://www.sea.edu/voyages/spice_fall2017

I will be spending a total of 6 weeks out at sea where I will be learning, living and growing as a student and global citizen on the SSV Robert C. Seaman’s Ship. I will be taking classes, researching and being an active crewmember of this sailing vessel during my entire time out at sea and at ports in New Zealand.

I am reaching out to you today for assistance with travel funds.

Thankfully, the sea semester tuition is mostly accounted for, but need help getting to my final destination! Travel to Woods Hole, Massachusetts for pre-training and flight to New Zealand cost around $2,000.00. I am working full time this summer to help cover tuition and other expenses, however, donations, personal words of wisdom and or any advice you can offer will be greatly appreciated. 

 Not many can say at age 21 they have traveled for research and education to three different countries and I look forward to making it a total of four this fall. 
With personal hard work and your help, I will be able to experience a life changing, challenging and memorable experience while studying abroad in New Zealand.

I hope to see you in person before setting off on the big adventure. If not, I will be sending email updates and pictures from each port stop. Without a doubt this will be the most challenging and incredible trip yet! I look forward to taking it in stride with all you by my side! 

 
Sincerely,
Hannah-Marie Pearl , C'19
Student Research Assistant
Department of Earth and Environmental Systems
The University of the South
Sewanee, TN 37383