Two Greenville High students have the opportunity to explore European history first-hand next summer as they serve as goodwill ambassadors for their school, state and nation as part of &#8220People to People International.”

The teens are working hard to earn the money needed to finance their dream adventure. From washing cars and walking dogs to wrapping presents and raking leaves, Connor Murphy-White and Amanda Monroe are ready and willing to do whatever it takes, they say.

&#8220If there is an odd job out there a 14-year-old or 15-year-old girl can do to help us raise money, we will tackle it,” Murphy-White said.

The two girls were nominated by teachers at the school to participate in the program, which was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to promote peace among nations and help youth build leadership skills.

All nominees went through a screening and interview process before final selections were made for the students who would best represent the state and the nation.

Monroe and Murphy-White are meeting with their fellow travelers and learning all about the six countries - Switzerland, Belgium, England, Germany, France and the Netherlands - they will be visiting during their 20 days abroad, starting June 12.

Needless to say, the two are excited over the sights they will take in as part of the student ambassador program.

&#8220We'll visit the Black Forest in Germany and see Mona Lisa at the Louvre in France,” Monroe said.

&#8220We'll take a gondola to the Swiss Alps, and see the Crown Jewels in England,” added Murphy-White.

&#8220In Germany, we will also have a home stay with a German family,” Monroe said.

&#8220And in England, we might actually get the chance to meet the Queen!” Murphy-White said with a smile.

&#8220I learn best about things hands-on, and this is the way to do it. I've been on a People to People trip before, and it is such a great experience,” she added.

The girls will also be required to participate in a recreation event to test their physical fitness levels, Murphy-White said.

&#8220This is going to be a wonderful experience for both of us.”

Tuition alone for each girl is $5,400, with additional monies needed for fees, charges and the all-important spending money.

In addition to requesting sponsorships from local businesses, clubs and organizations, the two have been exploring many avenues to earn their way overseas.

&#8220We've sold Tiger baskets and Auburn-Alabama baskets, we've sent out letters to our family members and business peopleŠwe're saving that birthday money,” Monroe said.

The girls are also planning a GHS blanket sale and a Christmas basket raffle to raise additional funds, and of course, are available for those odd jobs anyone needs done.

All monies are due in by March 1, 2007.

&#8220I think we will still be working right up to the day we go. I will want to pay my mother back if I have to borrow any money from her, and also we want to earn some spending money,” Connor-White said.

Monroe sees their People to People experience as an opportunity to learn responsibility both now and on their European jaunt this summer.

&#8220We are working to raise our money.

This summer, we are going to learn what it's like to be on your own and not depend on your parents.”

Murphy-White is looking forward to her ambassador role.

&#8220We really do have a chance to get to understand European history and culture much better so we can possibly achieve world peace.”

Anyone interested in learning more about People to People or in supporting the students' fundraising endeavors should contact Greenville High School at 382-2608.