Hello, my name is Mariana Rivera and I am a fashion design student at the Fashion Institute of Technology. For my Bachelor’s degree, I was given the opportunity to further my design skills and knowledge by pursuing study abroad. After graduating with over a 3.8 GPA for my Associates Degree, out of all the applicants, I was 1 of 25 students who was accepted into the Milan, Italy Study Abroad program.

Now, with an opportunity of a lifetime, that will not only tremendously advance my career but also help me grow as an individual— it would have been a waste to say no. After applying for federal aid and multiple scholarships, very little help came through. Resulting in my parents and I having to rely on private loans to help fund the majority of my education. I’ve even had to sacrifice pursuing fashion internships to waitress full-time to help save up for this trip the best I can.

So far we have been able to cover about 50% of expenses with private loans and out-of-pocket expenses. I would appreciate any help possible to take some of the weight off my my shoulders. Allowing me to be able to fully focus on my studies without having to worry how I will be able to pay it off while I’m in a country where I am unable to work. With your generosity and support I promise to prove that investment did not go to waste. Thank you