Emily’s First Real Out of USA Trip

Hi! My name is Emily and I'm 18 years old. I'm from Connecticut and I'm currently pursuing an Associates Degree in Illustration at Pratt Institute in New York City. This means I'm graduating by May of 2017, next year! Because of the fast track program I'm in, there is no opportunity for me to travel abroad. One of my closest friends is going on a backpacking trip through Europe the summer of 2017, and I was given the option of coming along.

This trip is very important to me because I have never travelled out of the United States before. The farthest I've been is Washington state. Since I graduate so early, at the age of 19, I feel I need to gain some experience and knowledge of the world before I start working in my career. I have an infinite curiosity for the countries and cultures around me, and I want to experience them firsthand while I am young. I could do this trip perhaps after I start working and can fully save the funds myself, but I don't want to take any chances. Life is so unexpected, a friend of mine recently died of cancer at the age of 16 and I can't think of holding myself back from doing things I want to do. I want to travel with enthusiasm and energy and do so with my closest friend! I couldn't imagine doing this trip with someone else, and my friend already has the funds and I must catch up. I want to learn about the world, please help me do so! I will be infinitely grateful to my donators. If I reach the amount I need by the summer of 2017, through my donators and myself, I will be sure to show my gratitude. The amount I have placed is what I need, but please don't think I will be lazy in the time between now and then. I will be working full hours in the summer, taking on a job during my next school year, selling my clothes and anything else I don't need. I just need some help along the way!