I'm Jasmine, an eleventh-grade student attending St. Croix Central High school in the U.S Virgin Islands, and an aspiring writer. Ever since I was eight years old, I’ve wanted to be a writer. Before then, I was just like any other child, switching my idea of a dream job between being a police officer, a firefighter, and a vet. When I complained of boredom and having nothing to do, the consistent response of my parents was, “go read a book or write a book”. This ignited my passion for writing.

This is why I was beyond excited when I received a letter from the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) inviting me to participate in a summer program in Washington DC in the career field of my choice. This is my chance to take action to help make my dream a reality. The NSLC is a summer program experience that is designed to give high school students career-focused conferences that also provide hands-on experience and tips/pointers in the field of your choice. Upon completion of the program, participants are awarded an academic transcript, letters of recommendation, and a Certificate of Achievement to include with college applications.

This is a tremendous honor and an opportunity to follow my dream of being an accomplished writer and being accepted into one of my top colleges where I can further pursue that dream. However, tuition and travel expenses are not something I can afford. The tuition alone is $3,500, and I anticipate needing an additional $1500 to cover the airfare, trip insurance, transportation, and meals off-campus when we go on excursions and field trips. 

I began fundraising on January 31 by selling homemade soy candles and baked goods that I made in order to get the funds for the application fee. I'm hopeful the community can help me raise the rest of the funds needed, and I appreciate everyone who can help me achieve my dreams!