This trip is not only my first time leaving the continental United States it is something that will help me grow as an individual and set myself apart from others who plan on going to graduate school like I do. These funds will help me pay for additional expenses for this trip such as educational ones (books),emergency money if something happens, food ( I need to eat), and expenses that could arise from the planned excursions while I am in Paris. For some more details I will be in France from September 14, 2014 - December 20,2014. So it is an entire semester of me studying the french language, culture, and history. As I mentioned before, this cost will help me cover part of the money that I need that is not covered by my own personal savings and my financial aid.The cost of this program is $14,500 not including other expenses such as visas, airfare, and spending money for food and emergencies. This money will help me cover part of the entire expense. Again this trip is such a huge opportunity for me to expand my horizons and experience something that not many people can. It will help me stand out among many others when getting into graduate school and hopefully provide me with a new way to view life! Do not worry about the amount that you're able to give any amount even $1 will help me get closer to my goal! That is the great thing about this website is that I get what ever is donated so even if i get far below what my goal is it will still help me regardless! For anyone wanting a more in-depth breakdown of the program go here to take a look! http://studiesabroad.com/programs/country/france/city/paris/duration/8/program/25/session/IPRF1314/viewOverview and here http://www.studyabroad101.com/programs/international-studies-abroad-isa-paris-french-language-liberal-arts-at-catholic-university-of-p