BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor
Like many other students with expectations of attending college, Ms. Sidnie Patterson graduated from Blake High School in 2008. She applied to Florida A & M University and was accepted.
This year, Ms. Patterson is a junior in the Business Administration Program. Her concentration is in Advertising and Marketing. Recently, she learned of an opportunity to study abroad during the spring semester that begins in January 2011 and ends in May.
Ms. Patterson will have the opportunity to visit Grenoble-French Alp, France, and spend four months learning new cultures, language, and to study International Business Relations.
The program is being offered through the School of International Training and Florida A & M University. In order for Ms. Patterson to visit France, she needs assistance in raising the $22,110. Ms. Patterson said so far, she has received about $12,000 in scholarships and grants.
She hopes that members of the community will help her accomplish her goal. “Although this is a very expensive semester program, I truly believe that it will enrich my college education with indispensible, tangible experience on a global scale.
[private]“I have secured some of the funding, but I am seeking help from my family, friends, and support from the community. Your donation will bring me even closer to achieving my goal. In the fortunate event that I raise more funds than I need, it will be donated toward the establishment of the study abroad scholarship fund at Florida A & M University to help another student,” she said.
A Tampa native, Ms. Patterson is the granddaughter of Felix and Jean Patterson. She is a member of the 34th Street Church of God and enjoys exercising, hanging out with her friends, reading, and writing poetry.
After earning her B. A. degree, Ms. Patterson plans to continue her education and earn her Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing.
Ms. Patterson said, “I’m a little nervous about leaving the country for the first time. But, I’m excited too, because it will be a new experience for me.”
Ms. Patterson further said that those wishing to stay informed about her progress during the trip can contact Ms. Karen Mitchell, her Abroad Coordinator at (850) 599-3295. For more detailed information about the trip, visit the website at www.gowithcea.com.
Anyone wishing to contribute can contact Ms. Patterson at (813) 842-1142; or via email at icecream90@live.com. Donations can be mailed to: Sidnie Renee’ Patterson; P. O. Box 172386, Tampa, FL 33672.[/private]
