My name is Malak, and my dream is to study abroad in Korea.Coming from a multicultural background, I’ve always been drawn to learning about different cultures. One, in particular, changed my life forever. I still remember discovering BTS in the fourth grade and begging my mom for their merch. A couple of years later, I attended my first Korean festival in sixth grade, where I finally met people who shared the same passions as me, and for the first time, I felt truly understood.Since then, I’ve taught myself how to read Hangul and began looking for opportunities to explore Korean culture more deeply. That’s when I found out about CIEE, a program that makes it possible for students like me to study abroad for a summer. Now, as a junior in high school, this has become my biggest dream.Korean culture has shaped me in ways nothing else has. It has given me inspiration, community, and a sense of identity. I know I wouldn’t be who I am today without its influence. Studying abroad would give me the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience that culture firsthand, alongside others who share the same love and passion.The cost of tuition and travel is about $9,000. While I don’t expect to reach that full amount here, every single donation helps me get closer to making this dream a reality. I’m also saving on my own and fundraising in other ways as well as working a part time job! Thank you so much for reading my story and supporting me in any way you can!