Lara Keay is embarking on a once in a lifetime experience to study journalism in India.
The ambitious 19-year-old university student, who lives in Watermead, will spend time at magazines and state newspapers during her month-long trip.
She said: “Career wise, I want to specialise in alternative media and tell the stories that are not always covered by mainstream media.
“I have been told Kerala is a lot more developed than the shanty towns which you imagine.
“When you say India, people always picture something from Slumdog Millionaire.
“But where I am going is a symbol of hope, although I expect to see a big contrast and a place where there is poverty and misfortune.”
The former Waddesdon School pupil sets off on July 12.
On her return she plans to highlight any issues which she unearths.
The promising youngster is also going to spend time with the news team at The Bucks Herald to give her an insight into British journalism.
Lara has used her savings to fund the trip, which costs roughly £1,000.
She is currently studying English and French at the University of Southampton.