Hello! My name is Yolanda and I am a soon-to-be Senior attending San Diego State University pursuing my degree in Communications. I have had the honor of being accepted to a once in a lifetime opportunity that could become a reality...Semester at Sea, a study aboard program that travels around the world to 15 Cities, 11 Countries, and 4 Continents:


Hawaii (Jan 12)

Kobe, Japan (Jan 24-Jan 28)

Shanghai, China (Jan 31-Feb 1)

Hong Kong, China (Feb 4-5)

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Feb 8-13)

Yangon, Myanmar (Feb 19-23)

Cochin, India (Feb 28-March 5)

Port Louis, Mauritius (March 11)

Cape Town, South Africa (March 18-23)

Takoradi, Ghana (March 30- April 1)

Tema, Ghana (April 2-3)

Casablanca, Morocco (April 11-15)

Amsterdam, Netherlands (April 21)


For those of you who know me well, you know it is a dream of mine to travel the world. Therefore, being provided an opportunity to do so while completing school courses is a dream come true. I have never been able to travel to any of the locations this program offers. Semester at Sea will allow me the chance to explore and understand many more cultures in tangible ways. I am excited to discover the similarities between groups of people and ways of life. I am looking forward to seeing how many other cities and countries compare or differ to what I know, from food and language, to its civilizations and landscapes. I am eager to experience the world’s diversities first hand and expand my worldview.


Unfortunately, the price of attendance is very high and not something that my parents or I will be able to afford. I work part-time while going to school; I started  an Instagram account (@_shopaholicfashion_) to sell my clothes and accessories I no longer wear, to make some extra money; and I have sacrificed being a member of my sorority to use those funds towards this voyage. Even with all that, I will still need more to cover costs. 


Tuition is $31,074. However, the price of semester will end up being closer to $40,000 to include the below additional expenses and fees:

Overnight stay prior to embarkation
Flights to embarkation/from debarkation
Travel visas
Textbooks
Any appropriate vaccinations
Between-meal food & beverages while on board
Laundry
Independent travel (spending money)


I am hoping to raise $20,000 by October 1st. However, any amount being raised will still go towards my program and a loan will be taken out for the rest amount due. If you could donate anything you are able and willing to give, that would help greatly. If you are unable to donate, spreading the word by sharing this page would a great help as well. 


Thank you so much!!!

Xoxo,

Yolanda E.