A Summer of Global Adventures: Access Students Explore the World

They rolled sushi in Tokyo, lived with the Maasai in Kenya, and learned Danish in Copenhagen. This summer, six Access Academies high school students enjoyed incredible intercultural adventures as they studied abroad with the Quest Scholarship Fund and Boniface Foundation. Nancy Abarca of Notre Dame High School, Malae Hill of St. Joseph’s Academy, and Kayli Pluma from Rosati-Kain explored Japan for five weeks, living with local host families (in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Fukuoka), attending intensive Japanese language classes, and learning about Japanese art, food, and traditions.

Darah Lozada-Ballena of Notre Dame High School immersed herself in Kenya’s rich culture, living with a family in a Maasai tribal village, volunteering at an orphanage, and learning about wildlife conservation efforts. Meanwhile, sisters Deanna and Isabella Reyes of Notre Dame High School embarked on a month-long Scandinavian journey in Denmark where they attended the Efterskole College. While there, mornings were dedicated to Danish language and science classes and afternoons filled with cultural exploration, group excursions, and eclectic electives like sailing, paddle boarding, and dance.

These life-changing adventures were made possible thanks to the generous support of the Boniface Foundation, the Quest Scholarship Fund, a local organization that offers high-achieving students from underserved areas the opportunity to step outside their local community and develop a global vision, and Access donors. We are excited that all six young women were able to experience this program and wish them continued success as they return to school with newfound wisdom and a global perspective to share with their communities. Click here to read more about their adventures.