Help Semester in Dialogue Alum Get to Grad School

Hi, My name is Diane Finegood and I am raising funds to help a former student from my Semester in Dialogue class get to graduate school. This student is smart, passionate and an amazing storyteller. They have a deep ambition to become a curator and help improve museums in their home country in Africa. They are now 90% of the way to having achieved their goal: they have been accepted into an excellent school in the US and have received considerable support from this University. But to get their visa to study abroad they have to show they have $10,000 in the bank.

During the Semester, this student overcame considerable challenges with access to computer equipment and connectivity. Their persistence along with their enthusiasm allowed them to contribute to our collective dialogues in deep and meaningful ways. I learned a lot from this student. Despite considerable hardship, they managed to complete their bachelor's degree and gain invaluable experience toward their future success. Graduate school is the next step.

I have always seen myself more as a mentor than a teacher and once I take on a student I am committed to helping them as much as I can. This student's need goes beyond what I can do myself, but I thought others might be willing to help. I'm hoping those who have experienced the life-changing nature of a Semester in Dialogue may be able to provide a bit of support to a fellow traveller.

The funds will enable this student to get their visa to study in the US and supplement other resources to cover their tuition and living expenses.

Note: I have not named this student as they fear this might prevent them from obtaining the necessary visa.