Tyrese S. is a high school student from Florida gearing up for his class trip to Paris, Brittany & Normandy this spring. We sat down with him to discuss fundraising, traveling outside the U.S., and life-changing experiences!
Let’s start with fundraising. How much money have you raised for your trip?
So far, I’ve raised more than two thousand dollars.
Did you set a fundraising goal before you started?
No goal was set — I was just planning on being thankful for whatever I got. I didn’t imagine raising this much money at all!
What methods have you used to raise money for your trip?
I used a variety of social media sites to inform people about my trip, and I’ve been earning some extra money helping out at the historical society in my community.
What has been the most challenging part of fundraising? The most exciting part?
I wouldn’t say it’s been challenging, because this was a trip I knew I wanted to go on and good things take time. The most exciting part is being able to thank the people who have donated.
Any words of wisdom for students who would like to raise money for their trips in the future?
It all starts with character and what you contribute. I think people were so willing to help me because of the positive activities I’m involved with in the community. I would say always show your true character and be grateful for anything you receive, even if it’s just a dollar.
Let’s pivot to travel! Have you journeyed outside of the U.S. before?
I’ve never traveled outside of the U.S., so this will be a first. I was so excited when my passport came!
What are you most looking forward to on your Paris, Brittany & Normandy tour?
Besides the Eiffel Tower and the Normandy beaches, I’m looking forward to seeing how people from other cultures talk and go about their daily lives. Oh, yeah — can’t forget about the food!
What do you most want to learn on your trip?
I would love to see how people from other cultures view the U.S., and I hope that I’ll have the chance to speak with a French native.
Why did you sign up for this tour?
I saw how this once-in-a-lifetime experience could be such a huge eye-opener for me! I haven’t seen much outside of Florida, so to be able to travel across the world is something I just couldn’t miss out on.
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