My name is Larissa Gaccione, and I am a 9th-grade student at Rancho High School. I am a part of the medical magnet program there. I was recently interviewed and accepted to participate as a member of the People to People Student Ambassador Program to Europe this summer.

The program promotes international understanding while building leadership skills among America’s youth. The 20-day experience includes meetings with government officials, interaction with other students my age, educational activities, and home stays with host families.

People to People Student Ambassadors are carefully interviewed and evaluated before their acceptance, and I am honored to have been selected. Personally, I am looking forward to broadening my perspectives of the world and gaining a better understanding of Italy, Sicily, and Greece. In Rome we will be visiting the Sistine chapel, and the Vatican. In Naples we will be observing what remains after the wake of an explosion that destroyed Pompeii in A.D 79. In Palermo we will explore the government center housed in Ancient Palazzo Reale, visit the San Giovanni degli Ermeti church, and much more.

Upon my return, I plan to share my experience with everyone.  As an Ambassador, I can also earn high school and college credit because of the many educational elements in my program.

I am currently seeking financial sponsors to help me with tuition, and hope I can count on your support. In case you haven’t heard of People to People, please allow me to share some history with you. President Dwight D. Eisenhower founded the organization in 1956. He believed that if people from different cultures could come together in peace and friendship, so eventually would countries. Since its founding, People to People has launched many international programs, including Sister Cities and Project HOPE.

The program tuition is 7,000. This includes all transportation, accommodations, meals, and educational activities. Is it possible for you to assist me by making a contribution? Any amount would be appreciated. I plan to give a speech and share my journal, photographs, and experiences with contributors upon my return. Please feel free to contact me at Boxer90210@gmail.com . if you need more information. Your generous contribution would enable me to share in this wonderful opportunity. Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.