My daughter Poppy has her heart set on an extraordinary opportunity: spending the summer of 2026 studying in Italy, through a pre-college University program that will earn her 6 college credits while immersing her in the culture she's loved since childhood.

Poppy's connection to Italy runs deep. You may know that she is a dual American-Italian Citizen. Some of her earliest and most cherished memories are of playing in the back garden at Enoteca Properzio in Spello, where her love affair with Italian culture and language first bloomed. Now, as she approaches her senior year of high school, she's ready to take that passion to the next level.

About Poppy: Poppy is the kind of student who excels in everything she touches. As a varsity athlete, she's learned the value of dedication and teamwork. Her consistent place on the Dean's List every semester reflects her academic excellence, while her roles as a student leader demonstrate her commitment to her school community. When she's not studying or competing, you'll find her creating music as both a musician and songwriter, or captivating audiences on stage as an awarded thespian.

Why This Matters: This isn't just a summer trip—it's a transformative educational experience that perfectly suits a young woman of Poppy's caliber. She'll be applying to several prestigious Italy-based programs in Rome, Florence and Turin this spring, each offering rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and college credits that will give her a head start on her university journey. For someone who has felt connected to Italy since she was small and has proven herself capable of excellence in every endeavor, this represents the perfect bridge between her childhood wonder and her academic future.

How You Can Help: Instead of traditional birthday or holiday gifts, Poppy has made a heartfelt request: she's asking for contributions toward making this dream a reality. The costs of international study programs are significant, but every donation—whether $10 or $100—brings her closer to this life-changing opportunity.

Your support will help cover program fees, housing, meals, and travel expenses, allowing Poppy to focus on what matters most: learning, growing, and making the most of this incredible experience.

Thank you for being part of Poppy's journey. She is genuinely grateful for any support you can provide.