If awarded the $1,000 Wander Fund scholarship, I would use it to support a transformative trip to Germany this May—my first international experience beyond a childhood visit to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. This trip is both a high school graduation present from me to myself and a self-gifted college graduation gift to my sister. We'll be departing May 22nd and returning June 1st. Additionally, while we’ve worked and saved diligently for this trip, the biggest cost remains airfare—about $825 each, even on a tight budget. This scholarship would go directly toward covering that, and anything left over would help with housing, meals, and local transportation Germany is where I have been planning on visiting since I began my my studies of the language and culture over the past 5 years at Ephrata High School, and that dream as not died since, but meerly took a back seat as I began diligently preparing myself for my future and aligning my actions with my aspriations. Further cementing our decision, my mother’s cousin, who lives in Halle as a missionary, provides us with a meaningful local connection and a base from which to explore outward from. Since beginning my studies about Germany, my plans to visit the Kölner Dom and Schloss Neuschweinstein are at the top of my list. I have been developing my interest in architecture since I turned 14 when I was gifted my first architectural books, and the styles of those two magnificent structures are certainly sights to witness in person. That being said, travel has always represented more than sightseeing to me—it's about immersion, perspective, and growth. As someone training to become an airplane pilot, I understand travel as being both a career and a calling. Understanding how others live, think, and move through the world helps me better navigate my own place in it. As I continue to dive into my aeronautical studies and passions alike, I have realized my deep connection to travel in more than just going somewhere because of its local monuments; it's more for the people I will meet. Travel is what brings happiness into my life, much like the ancient Greek philosopher, Epicurus, explained, the nessesities of a happy life are freedom, friends, and an analyzed life, all of which travel and experiences in new countries can provide me. Finally, receiving this scholarship would mean the difference between a trip that’s financially tight and one that allows me to be fully present in the experience. It would mean breathing room—an opportunity to pause from the balancing act of work, school, and flight training, and focus on cultural learning and exploration. It would be a stepping stone—not just to Germany, but to the broader world I hope to understand, connect with, and someday fly across.