I'm Michael Persic, an art student transitioning out of community college and into Burren College of Art, my first pick and a first step in a lifelong goal to return to my family's roots in Ireland. I've gotten into the school, and have saved every single penny possible to put towards my costs.

While at Burren, I will be focusing my studies on relief printing, illustration, and cultural studies, as well as working with my professors to map out the best way for me to finish my degrees while in Ireland. While I could list a million reasons I chose Ireland to study, it comes down to a few main points; family, future, and safety. My family is from Ireland, and I've dedicated a lot of my time and energy to learning our culture and language. There is a cultural revival in Ireland right now with an emphasis on Irish language, and being able to study with other Irish speakers would greatly improve my own skills, as well as help support this revival. On top of this, as long as I can remember, Ireland has been where I want to make my home. Starting school here gives me an in, as my school will aid students in getting their student visas, which then allows you to work part time in the country, a fantastic first step in the process of Irish citizenship. Finally, and unfortunately, safety. America is going through difficult times, and as a queer trans man, I am painfully aware of this. I would love to be able to go to school in a place I don't have to memorize the exits and hiding spots in case of a shooting, and to be somewhere with a healthcare system that won't force you into poverty and/or out of education if I get sick or hurt. Without these threats, I'll actually be able to put my full attention into my studies, making my time and money go farther.

As I cannot apply for student visa until I am in the country, and therefor cannot get a job immediately, this fund will help give me a pillow to land on while I get my papers sorted to help pay off classes, use public transit, and pay for room and board.

Every single dollar makes a difference, and every single share helps, this is a sort time period which I need to raise funds, as I will be leaving at the end of August. Please donate and please share. Go raith maith agat!