Help Marquez Explore His Heritage in Spain: Study Abroad

My name is Marquez Browne-Rosario. I'm an athlete and a National Honors for High School Scholars student at Central High School (286). I’m excited to share that I’ve been accepted into CIEE’s Spanish Language & Culture program in Palma de Mallorca, Spain! This four-week study abroad experience will allow me to immerse myself in Spanish culture, develop my language skills, and gain beneficial global standpoints.

This opportunity is deeply personal to me. Growing up in a single-parent household with my mom, I’ve always wanted to explore my paternal Puerto Rican heritage—especially the Spanish language, which my dad never taught me. Learning Spanish is more than just gaining a new skill; it’s a way to connect with my culture, communicate with family members, and embrace my identity. By living and studying in Spain, I’ll experience immersion in a new culture that will help me grow both personally and academically.

This program aligns with my long-term goals of expanding my education and building cross-cultural connections. As I continue my studies at Central, this experience will give me a competitive edge in developing language skills outside of the classroom and building independence, adaptability, and global awareness.

I am grateful to be offered a scholarship into the CIEE's program but I’m reaching out to ask for your support in funding the remaining tuition costs, travel fees, and expenses for the trip. My fundraising goal is $3,000, which covers:

Any contribution, big or small, brings me one step closer to making this life-changing dream a reality. Even sharing this fundraiser with your network would mean the world to me. Thank you so much for supporting my journey.

¡Muchas gracias!

— Marquez