By Ann Wobbe

Where can I get $900? That's the estimated cost of the trip to Germany. What a terrific opportunity this would be to actually spend the summer abroad! I'd even get a credit for going. The German department is advertising, "The best way to learn a language is to go to the country in which it is spoken," and my grade sure could use the encouragement. It's been so long since I've seen Mrs. Mathilde Zieglschmid, Maine East German teacher, too. She's directing the tour, and we would be able to spend two months together.

But what about the $900? I've imagined sailing across the Atlantic on the "Italia," landing at LeHarve, France, living with a German family, and sight‑seeing through Switzerland and Austria. What a way to earn a credit‑and spend $900.

That $900 echoed in my ears. I couldn't dig up that kind of money in three months. I'd have to quit school and become a full‑time construction worker. Maybe my parents could help me, I pondered.

I dashed home with the information sheet and explained the situation to my mother. She realized what a wonderful chance this was and offered to send me away-to Germany, I mean,on one condition. I'd have to get straight A's on my third quarter report card...

Oh well, I didn't really want to travel and see the world. I don't need the credit. I can learn the language in the course at school. What's so fabulous about a European trip anyway? Who can afford $900?