Friday, April 3, 2009

Hello, my name is Kelsey Haas and I am from Homer, Alaska. I'm currently a sophmore in high school, and I recently applied to go abroad this summer in the 2009 AFS program to the Republic of South Africa. I am very excited to have this opportunity to study abroad. I believe that this will be a life changing and maturing experience. I have wanted to spend a year in South Africa for several years, and I am thrilled that my dream is finally beginning to materalize. I want to go into South Africa with an open mind and a willingness to try new things, and leave with a broadened world-view and the ability and experience to teach those in my community about cultural understanding.
Hopefully, I will be able to raise enough money for this great experience of a lifetime! I have been working very hard on fundraising that has included a bake sale, summer employment, and hosting a dinner. I have also won a partial scholarship from AFS USA and my local AFS chapter. I am proud to say that I have only $3,000 more to raise. I expect to use income from my summer job this year, too, toward meeting this goal. Thank you for taking interest in my blog and reading about my future hopes and dreams. Any amount that you might be able to contribute will be greatly appreciated.