Sarah Brown to Thailand

While growing up, like most kids, I changed what I wanted to be when I grew up at least ten times. From being an opera singer, to an astronaut, a surgeon, even the President of the United States. I had high hopes.  Now, as a college student, I think I finally have it figured out. I am currently a student at the University of North Texas, majoring in International Studies while minoring in journalism and French. After graduation, I hope to make a career as an international correspondent, working to raise awareness about many international injustices and issues.

That's why in the beginning of my fall semester here at UNT, I eagerly applied to be a part of EDventures and have the opportunity to travel overseas and work with humanitarian and/or conservation efforts in a developing nation. Lucky for me, I was accepted into the program and on July 11th 2015, I get to travel to Thailand. While there, I not only get the chance to work on an elephant conservation, but teach local students and help in their communities. As a born and bred Texan, the only time I’ve ever seen anything outside of the suburban landscape of McKinney was either on vacations or television. Going to Thailand will not only be my first excursion out of the United States, but the first time I’ll ever be completely exposed to a different culture. This trip is vital not only to help me grow as a person, but to help me gain first-hand experience in what my future career could potentially be like. Going to Thailand will push me beyond my comfort zone and force me to get a taste of what it’s like for people who aren’t allotted the privilege of growing up in the “number one place to live in the United States”.

However, with great opportunity comes a great price. The entire trip, which includes; meals, logging, transportation and supplies while in Thailand, costs $3,800. However, this does not include flight expenses, passports or immunization costs. Rather than burden my parents with the cost of MY trip, I’m trying to fund everything on my own. The trip must be paid for in full by May 2015 and everything must be arranged and submitted by January 2015.

This is why I’m asking for your help. It would mean the world to my family and I if I could not only find the funds to actually go and get to experience this amazing opportunity, but if I could fund it on my own, with the help of sponsors, donations and fundraisers. If you can find it in your heart and wallet to donate I would not only greatly appreciate it, but as a barista at Starbucks, I have an unlimited access to mass amounts of coffee, so for every donation over $10, I will send said donator a free pound of Starbucks coffee. While it’s not much, it’s the least I could do for your time and generosity. Thank you for your time and consideration!