Hello family and friends, I am sharing this Go Fund Me because I need support to study in Italy for my first year of college.

My name is Jahleel Townsend and I am (freshly) 18 years old. I just graduated from Raisbeck Aviation High School and will be jumping right into college this fall at New York University in Florence, Italy! I haven't decided my major yet but so far I am leaning towards computer science or engineering.

I am asking for your support because in order to obtain an Italian Visa, I need proof that I can take care of myself financially for the entire academic year. By proof I mean a bank statement that shows I have a minimum of $8,000 (about $30/day). In addition to this, my family still has to cover my school tuition (that isn't covered by financial aid) AND travel expenses so I would like to lighten the burden for them as much as possible.

Just so you know, I just secured a summer job to contribute as well. I will be working full time up until the week I leave for Italy which is August 29th.

Why I'm excited about Italy:

• I will be learning a new language while also being immersed in the culture
• REAL ITALIAN FOOD.
• The landscape
• Rome and Naples is accessible by train
• FOOD.. hello Florentine steak

My high school career:

• GPA: 3.9
• Languages studied so far: 2 years of Spanish and 1 year of Chinese in Running Start
• Favorite Subject: Chemistry
• Extracurricular Activities: Science Olympiad ( studied various branches of science and competed with other schools through written tests, labs, and device tests.)

I really appreciate you all for taking the time to read this and for contributing to my bright future.

GRAZIE,

Jahleel Townsend