We are a group of dedicated high school students who have spent months preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime educational trip to Mexico—one that connects us to our heritage, our language, and our future.

This trip was designed to be much more than travel. Our goal is to experience learning beyond the classroom by visiting Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) and its historic Campus Central de Ciudad Universitaria, one of the most important universities in the Americas. For many of us, this visit represents the possibility of seeing ourselves in higher education spaces that shape the future of our communities.

During our journey we also planned to explore our Indigenous roots through a visit to Teotihuacan, where we would learn about Nahuatl language, history, and culture. We planned to deepen our understanding of Mexican education by visiting La Escuela Miravalles Marista, where we would volunteer in classrooms, donate school supplies, and exchange ideas with students about the differences between the Mexican and U.S. education systems.

Because faith is also an important part of many of our families’ lives, we hoped to visit La Basílica de Guadalupe, one of the most meaningful spiritual and cultural sites for millions of people.

For months we worked incredibly hard to make this trip possible. As students, we balanced school, jobs, and family responsibilities while fundraising at community events. Many of us worked extra hours, rearranged work schedules, and sacrificed personal time to raise the money needed.

Unfortunately, after months of planning and preparation, our school district informed us that the trip could no longer move forward under the school’s sponsorship due to travel policy restrictions. As a result, the funds we raised through school channels can no longer be used for the trip we worked so hard to plan.

Despite this setback, we are determined not to give up on this opportunity.

We are a group of eight students, and half of us are graduating seniors. Our advisor set clear expectations for grades, attendance, and behavior, and we have worked hard to meet—and exceed—those standards. This trip represents more than travel for us. It is a chance to reconnect with our heritage, expand our education, and see the world beyond our classrooms.

We are asking for your support to help us make this educational experience possible during our spring break.

Your contribution will help cover travel costs and ensure that the work we have already put into this dream does not go to waste. Every donation, big or small, brings us one step closer to turning months of effort and dedication into a meaningful learning experience.

Thank you for believing in students, education, and the power of cultural connection.