Expanding Horizons: Next stop, China!

Hello, Kabian A. Ritter extending greetings to you. I am currently pursuing greatness at the illustrious Howard University in Washington D.C., furthering my education as a Freshman Biology major Chemistry minor in the College of Arts and Sciences. In the first semester of my freshman year I was blessed with the opportunity to gain membership into the fourth class of the Freshman Leadership Academy (FLA). I was selected from over 450 applicants from freshman class to hone all aspects of leadership, service, and preparing me to be a successful African-American in today's increasingly competitive society. One of the major issues discussed within the Freshman Leadership Academy, and Howard as a whole, is being an international brand ambassador. No foreign country is more influential in our society and our daily lives than China.
    The Freshman Leadership Academy has been afforded an opportunity to travel to China, specifically to Bejing, Shanghai, Xian, and Hong Kong, to study and immerse ourselves in their culture. During this trip we will be exposed to academic curriculum specific to our areas of study, attend strengthening seminars on success in today's competitive global market, take rigorous Mandarin courses, and meet and exchange experiences with scholars like ourselves. As an 18 year old freshman, African-American male in college, few my age will ever be afforded such an astounding educational opportunity to expand their cultural and educational horizons overseas. However, this amazing opportunity cannot materialize without funding and the support and of friends and family like yourself. My primary goal is to raise $5,000 by April 1st and any assistance that you could provide to help me achieve that goal would be greatly appreciated.