I am an 11th grade student going to Parkway West High School in Chesterfield, Missouri. I live in a family of five, including myself. Being 16, I'm at the awkward, unfortunate age of being given the responsibility of taking care of myself in the world, but ufortunately this also categorizes me as "too old to be supported financially for everything" by my family, but "too young to be capable of a steady job." This puts me in a position that keeps me from being able to filfill much of my tuition needs. As for school, I am very active in the community, throwing myself whole-heartedly into various clubs including Book Club, Anime Club "Go" Club, History Club, and various others! Unfortunately, I am not the most academically disciplined, so my scholarship opportunities are somewhat limited, which is where you, as a supporter, come in!
My goal as a student is to improve my chances of being noticed as "unique and capable" by employers and Colleges alike while at the same time fulfilling my lifelong dream of studying abroad. AFS has provided me with the perfect opportunity to achieve this with their "High School Study Abroad" program. I was both thrilled and mortified when first discovering this, as it is everything I have dreamed; but the cost...It's not a bottom-class program, and it greatly saddens me, as it is one of very very few that fulfill all of my academic and cultural needs - It's actually the cheapest as well!
And for those of you who just want to know why you're here:
I need help. Big time. In order to qualify for the 2013-2014 Program, I need to raise a total tuition of $13,000 USD. I felt you cringe just now. And believe me when I say I cried for 3 days straight after seeing this. I was heartbroken that a dream-come-true should cost so much. But I have found my resolve, and determined to acomplish this goal. I WILL NO BE DEFEATED BY THIS!
But, I cannot do it alone. I need the help of anyone who is willing. And I am crushed by the stress of the situation, as - being a Junior - This is my last chance. Japan does not offer "GAP programs" (graduates attending a senior-year grade between High School and college), so my Senior year is my last chance.
I have Approximately 12 months to achieve this goal, and I can't do it without you! I'm literally on my knees begging for support, are you willing to help?
When this goal is accomplished, I swear on my Joy (and there will be joy) that I will do whatever I can within limity and reason to thank you. If you want a hand-written letter, consider it done. A phone call saying God-bless. You've got it. I'll even go as far as to start a weekly video-blog to show my travels and adventures in Japan.
Thank you so much ahead of time for your support,
-Michael Best.
