EDITOR’S NOTE: Today we’re sharing a letter that was sent to the Clinch Valley Times. We found it very interesting, and we think you will, too. One thing Mr. Howery failed to mention, however, is that every cultural exchange is a two-way street. The people he met in other countries also learned from him. They now know what an Appalachian IS.

Dear Clinch Valley Times Team,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Jack Howery III, and I’m originally from Bluefield, Virginia, though I spent most of my life in Richlands. I’m reaching out because I’ll be returning to the United States on September 12th after spending the last two years abroad, and I would be honored if you might consider sharing my story with your readers about the opportunities that education, travel, and cultural exchange can bring.

During my bachelor’s degree at UVA Wise, I had the chance to participate in two study abroad programs – six months in Paris, France, and six months in Santiago, Chile. Those experiences completely transformed my outlook on the world. Inspired, I applied to graduate programs overseas and was awarded the Deutschlandstipendium, a prestigious merit scholarship funded by the German government. This allowed me to pursue a dual-degree master’s program: one year in Frankfurt (Oder), Germany, and one year in Macerata, Italy. I graduated with two master’s degrees – a M.S. in International Business from Germany and a M.A. in International Relations from Italy.

Altogether, I’ve studied in six countries (the United States, France, Chile, Germany, Poland, and Italy) and traveled to 59 others, including Egypt, Jordan, and Ukraine. Each experience has strengthened my belief in the power of cultural exchange and the importance of bringing those lessons back home.

As someone from Appalachia, where many young people may not always have the chance to travel or study abroad, I feel deeply passionate about encouraging students in our region to explore the world. Growing up in Richlands, I never imagined I would one day earn two master’s degrees abroad and visit nearly 60 countries. I would be truly grateful if you might consider writing a story about my journey to help show others in our community that these opportunities are possible, even for students from small towns like ours.

Warm regards,
Jack Howery III

BEST OF LUCK TO YOU, JACK!

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