Hello, my name is Ciara Ramsay and I am raising funds to study abroad (CISabroad), which will allow me to pursue my goals of learning about cross cultural psychology, international affairs, foreign language, Mediterranean culture, and movements specifically working to liberate underprivileged and working class people of color around the globe.

Through this program, I will be able to study in Rome, Italy and Barcelona, Spain during summer 2018. I have never been to Europe and it has always been a travel destination of mine. More specifically, I have been intrigued to take my studies to Italy and Spain so that I could gain more confidence, become more independent, and challenge myself academically as well as personally in another country.

By studying abroad, it will not only give me personal, academic, and career oriented experience, but it will also give me insight on the program itself. In order to encourage others to study abroad, it is critical to have hands on experience about the program. It is my goal to advocate, inspire and encourage minorities to join the study abroad experience and learn about different cultures and advance their knowledge on a global spectrum. Did you know that between 2015 and 2016 only 28.4 percent of minorities experienced studying abroad? In more detail, accroding to NAFSA's "Trends in U.S. Study Abroad", the breakdown showed that 5.6% were African American or Black, 8.4% were Asain/ Pacific Islander, 71.6 were Caucasian, 9.7% were Hispanic/ Latino American, 3.9% were Multiracial, and 0.5% were American Indian/Alaska Native that studied abroad between 2015 and 2016. I want to make a difference! As an African American and Indo-Caribbean female, as well as a first generation college student, I want to experience parts of the world that we often hear about and I want to make it my goal to inspire other people from traditionally undeserved groups to participate in a life-changing experience.

This trip will not be possible without a lot of sacrifice. I was fortunate to obtain a small scholarship of $500 through my school, but it is not nearly enough to cover all of the expenses for this trip. I am saving up all of my internship money plus any other funds that I get from side jobs but it is still not enough. This is why I am turning to you -- my family members, friends, and communities who have supported my journey and growth for so many years. With your continued support and contribution, whatever it may be, I will be able to pay for this trip which includes, airfare, room and board, visas, insurance, books, supplies and more.

I will be a senior at St. Francis College in New York City this fall 2018. I major in Psychology and I will pursuing my BA/MA in a special program at my home school. I have worked hard and have been dedicated to my studies which enabled me to maintain a GPA of 3.83. I aspire to be an Entertainment or Employment Lawyer. After I receive my Master’s degree my plan is to move on to law school. I serve as part of the Student Government Association as Senator, am a part of the St. Thomas More Pre-Law Society as well as the Psi Chi Honor Society and have secured a paid internship to help build my skills and portfolio. Through my studies and experiences, I will one day be able to give back not only to my mother and dad (stepdad), who has sacrificed so much for me, but also to everyone including the communities that have helped me make it this far. 

For me this is a dream come true with a significant purpose so I ask that you please help make this dream possible! Anything helps! I can share with you where the funds are going if you would like to see a breakdown. Also, I promise to give back and share my experiences and be a mentor and champion others to follow their dreams and take risks.

I hope you all have an amazing day and I appreciate you for taking the time to read my story.

Much Love & Appreciation,
Ciara Ramsay