Hello, my name is Regina Edwards, and I am the proud single parent of Taylor N. Romain — a remarkable young scholar, artist, and emerging leader. As a mother, I have watched Taylor grow into an extraordinary young woman whose dedication, compassion, and brilliance continue to inspire everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Taylor is an honor roll student attending the prestigious Ross School on a full academic scholarship — a reflection of her exceptional work ethic, perseverance, and genuine love for learning. She currently maintains an outstanding 3.97 GPA and consistently performs above grade level across all subjects.

Beyond her academic excellence, Taylor devotes her time to helping others. She volunteers and tutors students who need additional support, sharing her gifts with humility, generosity, and grace. Her leadership shines naturally in every space she enters.

Now, Taylor has earned a life-changing opportunity: a global educational journey to France-Marselle & Iconic Paris, where she will explore new cultures, deepen her understanding of the world, and strengthen her dream of becoming a Cardiothoracic Surgeon. This program is rigorous, enriching, and transformative — an opportunity that will shape her academic path and broaden her worldview in profound ways.

As a single parent, I am committed to doing everything I can to make this experience possible for her. However, the travel and program expenses are significant, and we are reaching out to our extended family, friends, and community for support.

Every contribution — no matter the size — brings Taylor closer to this once-in-a-lifetime experience and reminds her that she has a community who believes in her, supports her dreams, and stands with her as she steps into her future.

When we invest in the dreams of our youth, we invest in the future of our world.

Together, we can make this moment unforgettable — not only for Taylor, but for every young person who dares to dream, to achieve, and to give back. ❤️

COURSE SYNOPSIS — Field Academy: Marseille & Paris

This Field Academy course centers on Marseille — the westernmost city of the French Riviera and one of Europe’s oldest and most culturally diverse port cities. Founded in 600 BCE by Greek sailors and later absorbed into the Roman Empire, Marseille has always been a crossroads of people, cultures, and ideas. Its identity reflects centuries of movement across the Mediterranean, shaped by newcomers from Italy, Armenia, North and West Africa, and beyond.

On this journey, students examine Marseille’s layered history while experiencing its living culture. From the Old Port, Fort Saint Jean, and Château d’If to vibrant neighborhoods like Cours Julien, students explore how migration, cultural blending, and historical continuity shape the modern city. Conversations with local residents and NGOs highlight both the challenges and opportunities of immigration. Market visits, scavenger hunts, and cultural exchanges immerse students in everyday life. A day spent hiking in Calanques National Park emphasizes the deep connection between people and place.

After eight days in Marseille, the trip concludes in Paris, the political heart of France. Students visit landmarks including Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe, and explore the National Museum of the History of Immigration to connect Marseille’s local story to France’s national narrative.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Paris → high-speed train to Marseille → hotel check-in → orientation → celebratory walk & dinner

Day 2: Guided tour of Marseille → Museum of Civilizations of Europe & the Mediterranean → Old Port → Fort Saint Jean

Day 3: Musée Regards de Provence → boat to Château d'If → Îles de Frioul

Day 4: Guided immigration tour → Cours Julien → Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde → sunset dinner

Day 5: Visits to artisanal soap factories → Marseille History Museum → environmental conservation NGO

Day 6: Train to Aix-en-Provence → guided tour → return → immigration-focused NGO

Day 7: Parc National des Calanques → hiking → journaling

Day 8: High-speed train to Paris → Museum of Immigration → Notre Dame → Eiffel Tower → Arc de Triomphe → dinner

Day 9: Montmartre → airport transfer → return to New York

ENDURING UNDERSTANDINGS

Cities evolve over centuries, accumulating cultural layers that shape identity.

Immigration reshapes societies, enriching communities with new traditions, perspectives, and experiences.

Geography influences cultural and social development in powerful ways.

Regional identities contribute to — and complicate — national identity and belonging.

STUDENT WORK & COLLABORATION

Students will journal, create a Milanote gallery, and engage in guided discussions. Collaborative work will deepen their understanding of history, multiculturalism, and global citizenship.

EXPECTATIONS

Students are expected to uphold the Ross School Core Values, respect cultural norms, participate fully in group activities, follow safety guidelines, and adhere to the school’s code of conduct, technology rules, and dress expectations.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Travel visa for France required

Short boat rides and light hiking included