Why ASA's Commitment to Giving Back Matters to Me as a Study Abroad Alumna

Words by Giana Messia, who studied abroad with ASA in Florence during the Fall semester of 2024.

One of the first things you notice as an ASA student is that the program is about more than just academics. I remember the first time I scrolled through ASA’s website, reading through countless stories from prior students, only dreaming of reliving their semester abroad. The program offered more than just affordable housing and school arrangements; it offered opportunity. I was eager to be a part of a program that allowed students to reflect on their time abroad and the memories they created through writing blogs and social media posts. Yes, we’re here to study, to challenge ourselves, and to immerse ourselves in a new culture—but we’re also here to learn how to be engaged members of a global community. That’s why hearing about ASA’s recent holiday donation felt especially meaningful to me.

In celebration of its 26th anniversary, ASA decided to give back once again. Instead of sending holiday gifts to partner institutions this year, ASA donated $2,500 to a local nonprofit, Storytime Crafts. As a student, this choice stood out to me because it reflects the same values ASA encourages us to practice during our time abroad: curiosity, generosity, and connection.

Storytime Crafts is a nonprofit organization based in the greater Boston area that donates books and educational games to children in financially disadvantaged communities. Each year, they distribute more than 100,000 books and 10,000 games to young learners. Their mission is the belief that reading opens doors—not only to knowledge, but also to understanding people, cultures, and experiences.

ASA's Executive Director/Founder Lee Frankel said, “ASA is pleased to continue supporting StoryTime Crafts as they continue to put over 100,000 books per year, as well as games, stuffed animals, and hygiene kits into the hands of children and families across Boston. It is people like Lisa who work tirelessly to try to level the playing field when it comes to education that we are always happy to support.”

Studying abroad has shown me how powerful someone's story can be. Whether it’s learning about a city’s history through a museum visit, hearing classmates talk about their hometowns, or reading messages from another cultural perspective, stories help bridge differences. Stories play a huge role in connecting people. It ultimately shows how much we have in common, even when our backgrounds differ.

Knowing that ASA is supporting an organization that puts books into children’s hands feels like a natural extension of what the program stands for. Storytime Crafts doesn’t just provide entertainment; it gives children the tools to imagine and to ask questions. As someone who is a bookworm and booklover, this is an extremely meaningful act.

This donation also made me think about the ripple effect of education. Initiatives like this give children access to learning at a much earlier age. For many children, receiving a book can be the beginning of a lifelong relationship with reading, learning, and curiosity about the world. ASA’s decision to honor its partners by supporting a nonprofit instead of sending gifts also sends a powerful message. It shows gratitude while also investing in the community. 

As ASA celebrates 26 years of supporting students and building international partnerships, this donation feels like a reflection of the program’s heart. It reinforces why so many students trust ASA with such an important part of their education. We’re not just students enrolled in a program; we’re a part of a community that values empathy, learning, and making a positive impact on the world.

As the holiday season approaches, I’m grateful to be part of an organization that leads by example. ASA’s support of Storytime Crafts is a reminder that education, in all its forms, has the power to connect us, and there's always room to give back along the way.

Thanks, Giana!