My first time out of Minnesota - Going to Europe!

Cheenou Moua Start Date: Apr 18, 2016 - End Date: Jan 17, 2017
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
  • France
  • England, United Kingdom

My Travel Story

by: Cheenou Moua Start Date: Apr 18, 2016 - End Date: Jan 17, 2017
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
Dear friends,


My name is Cheenou Moua. I am currently a Junior at my local high school in Saint Paul, Minnesota; John A. Johnson Senior High School. This following year, I will be enrolling in a Post-Secondary Institute or PSEO. Taking many rigorous courses such as AP/IB/CIS, I have little time to prepare myself mentally or physically for a trip. I rarely venture beyond the Twin Cities, travelling farthest to the St. Croix River. Though, I never imagine to travel to a realm beyond that.


More about myself: Age of 16 years, I wonder why I haven’t gone fishing or even travel to my border states. As a Hmong Minority and born in a First-Generation family, we do not often travel due to financial hindrances. I stayed home attending a Minneapolis church, I was able to experience many new things: camping, fishing, and other events that locates out of my local community; my church hosted many events. Each time I kept going to the events, I learn new things about myself and others. Moreover, I realized how different Minneapolis compared to Saint Paul. I saw depictions many other cultures around the area using graffiti art and architecture. I can recall driving through an area which very depicted the heart of Chicago; though I never been to Chicago. The Hmong Minneapolis community also did things differently, especially with jokes. It was an exhilarating experience.


My older siblings had graduated college. My sister had chosen to study abroad. Despite my parents refusal, my sister went to study abroad (twice: China & UK). Coming back, she looked at the world in a different perspective. Elucidating her experiences, I wanted to do a similar feat. I sought for an opportunity.


Recently, my Advanced Placement (AP) US History teacher has asked Johnson students who wanted to participate in a Europe trip as of Spring 2017; hosted by Educational Tours. The trip will focus on the history & culture of Europe, mainly in correlations with US history; France and England. I was eager to accept the invitation, but the cost left me in awe. I contemplated if I should try to afford the trip or save it for college. Listening to my sister’s travel stories, I had to go. In preparation, I will be working during the school year and Summer, while fundraising. I never imagine that I would be preparing for a international trip! The ducation I receive in school, can never teach me what travelling has in store.


I see this as an opportunity to get an hands-on experience on how the real-world functions; to see and distinguish many other cultures. Furthermore, having the ability to express my individualism and culture towards others. But there is a deeper meaning in addition to the one million meanings.


As a Hmong Minority, I do not see many Hmongs travelling internationally. This is due to financial barriers and mainly, cultural barriers. I strongly feel determined to undermine this barrier. Many younger generations simplify the concept of travelling, because they do not understand the “after-effects.” Stating, “too much money.”  I want to show both elders and youths that my experience can be beneficial towards my culture and understanding. I believe that any form of travelling: locally, nationally, and internationally can make a difference in people. I want to show my whole community. I want to innovate a path for others to lead. This meaning, is a passion that overrides all one million.


Please, help me along my journey to experience Europe and the true meaning of travelling. Let me create a path for others and show my elders what it means to travel. This will be my first time ever, “outta” Minnesota! I can barely stay in my seat just at the thought of getting on an airplane.


Any support is greatly appreciated!


I will stay updated on my efforts and travels in Europe using the social media application, Facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/strator.narix


Sincerely,

Cheenou J Moua

  • France
  • England, United Kingdom