Hello everyone!

My name is Jonathan Rivero, and I am a junior at Franciscan University of Steubenville, majoring in Theology and Psychology. Thanks to the generous scholarship I received, I have the privilege of studying at one of the world's best Catholic universities under modern-day legends such as Dr. Scott Hahn and Dr. John Bergsma.

Franciscan University offers a one-of-a-kind, semester-long study abroad program in Gaming, Austria, and I aspire to participate in this coming spring.

While abroad, I would reside in a beautiful 800-year-old Carthusian monastery located in the foothills of the Austrian Alps. During my stay, I would have the incredible opportunity to travel throughout Europe and visit a vast array of Catholic sites, such as Rome and Assisi.

Coming from a very tight-knit family, I have never wandered far from home—let alone overseas. This opportunity would enable me to acquire valuable life skills and develop healthy independence. It would also present new challenges, such as navigating foreign cities and communicating in languages other than English. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, I will be surrounded by a wonderful community of students and professors who share my faith.

Although there would be numerous opportunities for exploration, I will remain committed to my studies, giving priority to them even with all of Europe at my fingertips. I will also continue to be blessed with abundant opportunities to grow in my relationship with God, including the blessing of attending daily Mass in the magnificent chapel of the “Kartause.”

Even though I am looking forward to witnessing the breathtaking landscapes of Europe, what I am most excited about is visiting the great Catholic destinations, including the sites of the Saints and Marian apparitions that have shaped our faith.

Due to my current academic workload, I have not been able to secure an on-campus job. For this reason, I am seeking your generous support to help make this journey possible.

Please know that you will be in my prayers.

Thank you, and may God bless you.

Blessings in Christ,

Jonathan R