Help Frankie Study Peace and Conflict in Iceland & Ireland

As a nontraditional student at a community college, I never thought I would have the chance to study abroad. As I prepare to transfer to a four year university to continue my journey in social research and community care, I am seeking every opportunity to engage with diverse communities and cultures, public policy, and the historical challenges around autonomy and self-determination that shape our social landscape to this day. That's why I am thrilled to have been accepted into the Peace and Conflict in Iceland & Ireland study abroad program at Portland Community College!

This summer, I will be learning about how we create institutions and policies that can prevent, manage, or trigger violence. Our program is built around two in-depth case studies, Iceland and Ireland, to understand how both nations survived long periods of colonialism and nationalist movements while preserving Indigenous cultures and language. In August, we will be traveling to both countries. Here are some of the program highlights: a walking tour of Reykjavik, a visit to the Alþingi (Icelandic Parliament), touring the Golden Circle sites, a guided tour of Belfast, an excursion to the Cliffs of Moher, visiting the Irish Republican History Museum and a Gaelic language school.

As a Pell grant recipient, I receive significant financial aid for my course fees and have been saving funds to cover my airfare. However, as a full-time honors student with a part-time job on campus and significant community mental health volunteer commitments, I am still seeking assistance with my fundraiser to cover program fees. These fees, estimated to be $5,400, will cover housing during the program, select meals, co-curricular/cultural activities, airport pickup/drop-off, program transportation and entry fees, on-site orientation as well as international health insurance.

Thank you for supporting me in my educational journey!