Dear friends,

I am now a junior at the University of Missouri, majoring in Natural Resources Management and I’m reaching out to you for your support. I have been offered an amazing opportunity to study abroad at EARTH University in Costa Rica this summer. I cannot express how grateful and thrilled I am about this opportunity. Although I have applied for a scholarship and will receive some loans, this financial aid package does not cover all expenses for the trip. Any help would be greatly appreciated and I can ensure you it will be an investment in the fate of our world’s precious resources.

I grew up in Iowa and as long as I can remember I have had a love for the natural world. Coming from a long line of farmers, I thank my family for teaching me to respect the land and animals. I appreciate what my heritage and upbringing has ingrained in me and now I want to share my enthusiasm with others.

While in Costa Rica I will be enrolled in two courses:

-Engaging Rural Communities: Tools and Methodologies for Sustainable Development

-Tackling Environmental Issues: How to Measure, Manage and Mitigate our Impact

My dream is to take my education and experiences and pass them along to future generations. My aim is to someday work in park or reserve in Central or South America, where I hope to take part in the effort to protect and conserve valuable natural resources.

Again, I would greatly appreciate any support you are able to give! This experience will no doubt have a lifelong impact on my personal beliefs and career goals. I look forward to sharing stories from this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with you all.

Thank you!
Mallory Steffen