Saving the world one trip at a time!

Dmitri Nickell Start Date: Jan 23, 2024 - End Date: May 22, 2024
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Study/Degree Abroad
  • Freiburg, Germany

My Travel Story

by: Dmitri Nickell Start Date: Jan 23, 2024 - End Date: May 22, 2024
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Study/Degree Abroad
Hallo, ich heiße Dmitri und ich studiere Umweltwissenschaft und Deutsch!
Auf Englisch- Hello, I'm Dmitri and I study environmental science and German!

I'm attempting to raise funds for a study abroad trip in which YOU can also benefit! This trip will be to Freiburg, Germany, a town close to Schwarzwald or The Black Forest. The theme of this study abroad trip is sustainability and GREEN urban development as well as German culture. During the trip, we will meet with sustainability professionals to discuss and tour different facilities as well as take trips to The Black Forest to view conservation efforts in Germany.

How does this benefit you? Whether climate change is at the forefront of your mind or not, clean air, water, soil, and aesthetically pleasing natural spaces are all things that make us healthier and happier. The primary objective of this trip is to learn from sustainability professionals in a country that is one of the world leaders in sustainability. With the knowledge gained, I can come back and implement the ideas taught to me right here in our community, making our space better. While there are many things you can do to help, the burden of learning all there is to know about environmental science and sustainability is a large one, and we all have busy lives. Let ME do the learning and heavy lifting for you! This is my passion (and my degree)!

My major is Sustainability Studies with minors in German and Environmental Science. For as long as I can remember, the outdoors and nature have been places I can go to find peace and enjoy the little things. I'm dedicated to preserving that opportunity for generations to come of people like me. As most of us know, the care of our earth and our actions as humans are of utmost importance as we face the challenge of climate change and habitat loss. With my degree, I hope to work directly with plants and animals and help developers with sustainable development, allowing nature and humans to coexist harmoniously, create better environmental quality, and restore habitats that encourage biodiversity. Specifically, promoting affordable high-density housing and surrounding people-friendly infrastructure that allows for the intermingling of people, nature, and bio-diverse ecosystems while remaining energy efficient and green is something I'm interested in, among other nature-conservation efforts. This trip will instill knowledge that I can bring back to help benefit us all as I work to create a better environment.

Well-versed, passionate individuals with diverse backgrounds are key to promoting an atmosphere in which professionals can work together to solve challenges in the best way possible. This trip will not only expose me to the sustainability practices of a world-leading country but also continue to hone my sustainability and German culture skills. An experience that will help me develop my professional and personal knowledge and character. This trip counts towards my sustainability major and German minor and will be invaluable in diversifying and developing me as a professional. 

The $2700 cost to the school for the trip covers lodging, flight, and breakfast. I will be responsible for my lunch/dinner, hydration, hygiene, emergency items, etc. I expect the total cost to be between $3,100-$3,500.

If you see the value in this trip that I do, any amount of support is greatly appreciated! Even just a share goes a long way. 

Donations can be written off at tax time, save your receipts/confirmation codes!

I'm selling plants and doing car cleanings for local readers to help fundraise as well. If you're interested in that feel free to find me on Facebook - Dmitri Nickell

**I can do my best to accommodate small trinkets/souvenir requests from the area with a donation; if you provide a way for me to contact you or can contact me. Please keep airline size and weight restrictions in mind when making a request**
  • Freiburg, Germany

Updates

3
  • Study Abroad Scholarship!

    Good news, I was selected for an $800 scholarship to help cover the cost of the trip. That means the application cost has been reduced to $1,900 and the total cost will be closer to $2,500. I am still trying to save money, but recently had to purchase a new iPad for school which made a dent in what I had saved. I'm still hoping to raise enough to go however and your support means the world!
  • New Donor Rewards!

    I have added several new donor rewards! Make sure to take a look!