Dear Friends and Family, I am honored to share that I have been selected to study abroad at the University of Oxford through the Virginia Program. In this program, students live and study in Oxford, England, taking courses taught by University of Virginia faculty and Oxford tutors. The program emphasizes rigorous academic study alongside the cultural and historical richness of one of the world’s oldest and most renowned universities.
As a junior at Hampden-Sydney College majoring in English and History, the opportunity to study at the University of Oxford—where prime ministers, kings, and Supreme Court justices have studied—is truly extraordinary. This opportunity builds upon my educational and leadership experiences, including earning an International Baccalaureate diploma and serving in several leadership roles: President of the Young Democrats Club, Vice President of Hampden-Sydney’s Minority Student Union and its NAACP Chapter, Treasurer of the Unity Alliance (a Gay-Straight Alliance), and a member of the Student Senate. I have maintained a 3.5 GPA while also serving within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where I have held positions such as NPHC Chapter President, Secretary, Dean of Membership, and Vice President of the Xi Zeta Chapter.
My academic journey, combined with this monumental opportunity to study abroad, is incredibly exciting. However, studying abroad comes with significant expenses, including program fees, travel, and living costs. I am working hard to cover as much as possible through savings and financial aid, but I am reaching out to family, friends, and supporters of higher education for help in making this experience possible. If you feel comfortable contributing in any way, I would be deeply grateful. Any amount—large or small—truly helps. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and for supporting my educational pursuits. I am incredibly fortunate to have such a wonderful community behind me. If you would like to hear more about the program or my plans while abroad, I would be happy to share.
With gratitude,
Ryan
As a junior at Hampden-Sydney College majoring in English and History, the opportunity to study at the University of Oxford—where prime ministers, kings, and Supreme Court justices have studied—is truly extraordinary. This opportunity builds upon my educational and leadership experiences, including earning an International Baccalaureate diploma and serving in several leadership roles: President of the Young Democrats Club, Vice President of Hampden-Sydney’s Minority Student Union and its NAACP Chapter, Treasurer of the Unity Alliance (a Gay-Straight Alliance), and a member of the Student Senate. I have maintained a 3.5 GPA while also serving within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where I have held positions such as NPHC Chapter President, Secretary, Dean of Membership, and Vice President of the Xi Zeta Chapter.
My academic journey, combined with this monumental opportunity to study abroad, is incredibly exciting. However, studying abroad comes with significant expenses, including program fees, travel, and living costs. I am working hard to cover as much as possible through savings and financial aid, but I am reaching out to family, friends, and supporters of higher education for help in making this experience possible. If you feel comfortable contributing in any way, I would be deeply grateful. Any amount—large or small—truly helps. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and for supporting my educational pursuits. I am incredibly fortunate to have such a wonderful community behind me. If you would like to hear more about the program or my plans while abroad, I would be happy to share.
With gratitude,
Ryan
Organizer
