Help Me Move Forward Towards My Professional Dream

Hi! My name is Borja Romero and I'm fundraising to pursue a study abroad high school program in sports management this summer.

Please allow me to tell you a little bit about myself and explain how important it is for my future the help you can give me today.

For as long as I can remember, my life has revolved around soccer. Almost every picture of myself includes a soccer ball or jersey. Soccer has been more than just a sport for me; it's been my lifelong passion and has shaped my identity, and still does. Soccer has been my teacher, my friend, and my rock when I miss my family and friends in Chile.

But most importantly, soccer is my future. Since the day I discovered I didn't have the enough talent needed to be a professional soccer player, sports management emerged as the number one professional path. That is why my heart raced when I got accepted into the "CIEE High School Sports Management Program."

This program happening in June in Barcelona is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to get a closer look at what being a sports manager really means, understand transfer strategies, player negotiations, soccer marketing campaigns, and leadership. Meeting and interacting with real professionals in Barcelona will prove that sports management is not just a passion but a viable and respected professional path.

My parents haven't had a financial situation to always cover for my expenses and have never given me a monthly allowance. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. In fact, though I'm still too young to fully realize it, it has been a blessing. I have had to work hard to get what I wanted. I babysit frequently and referee at least one game every weekend during soccer season. I have also dog-sated and even baked and sold cheesecakes with my brother during the pandemic. This has made me value my parents' efforts daily when I watch them work and has given me a sense of responsibility and self-sufficiency. I never thought I would be able to buy the newest iPhone myself!

But even though I have saved a lot of money and won a 5% scholarship, without your help and the help of my community, I won't be able to take this course and take this unique opportunity.

To be completely honest, I have to confess that I don't feel comfortable asking for money, especially with all that is happening in the world today. But life has taught me that money isn't necessarily an impediment to fulfilling your dreams. If you have the opportunity to fight for what you want, it is amazing how much you can achieve. This is something I have learned from watching my parents every day.

Your generous contribution will help me pay for the course, the plane ticket, and first need personal expenses!

Please help me! I will make sure in the future to help kids who will be in my same position and give me the opportunity you are giving me today.

Thank you!