February 17, 2000

Dear Prospective Sponsor,

For several years I have been actively committed to enhancing my education by travelling and experiencing the world's many cultures. At 12 years of age, I lived in Funabashi, Japan with my mother and brother to experience the Japanese ways of life. When I was 17, I went to Palmerston North, New Zealand through a year-long high school intercultural studies program, where I resided with a New Zealander host family and attended high school classes. And in the Spring of 1999, through a program with the University of California, Santa Cruz, I took part in an 11-week program to Nimes, France, where I lived with a French host family and attended daily classes with other students from my university. As many students have who have travelled abroad in the past, I've become addicted to learning more about the languages and cultures of the world.

Because of my experiences and everything I've gained from them, I have become committed in helping other young people in acheiving what I have achieved in the past by studying abroad. To do this, I have initiated a Study Abroad Resource Site on the World Wide Web. On this site, I have a collection of resources and other information that potential "study-abroad-ers" might find helpful. I am also working on writing personal stories based on my experiences in the past. The site is still in its initial phases and is constantly being worked on, but I believe that most learn something new every time they visit the site. It is located at:

http://www.geocities.com/moozealand

I have recently found out that the Education Abroad Program at the University of California, Davis has a wonderful study-abroad program, where undergraduate students are able to experience foreign cultures, gain academic skills on a globular scale, and return to the United States as well-educated and critically-thinking students. I am intent on taking part in this program, and am currently in the process of applying. The university at which I hope to attend will be the University for Foreigners in Siena, Italy. I have decided to see Italy, as its people and culture have always deeply intrigued me. The program itself, much like the on I took part in in Nimes last year, is a language and culture program.

The cost for the program, including fees, travel expenses, housing & food, and other expenses, has been estimated at about $6,000 for the fall term. I have been turning to various sources of aid-- federal, state, university, loans, etc. but still need all the extra support that is possible. Can I count on you for your support? Contributions in any amount are greatly appreciated and will help me in achieving my goals.

In exchange for your generosity, I will be willing to show my gratitude by including yourself or your business or organization on a page of thanks, at my study abroad resource website. If possible, I will attempt to make connections with local media, and perhaps get an article written about my endeavors, which might include those individuals or groups that are helping me. In addition, I will be creating a section on my website where anyone interested can hear about my future experiences on the UC EAP program.

I am available by email at [email protected]. Thanks again.

Sincerely,

M. C. L.