Three Saint Mary’s students have received the prestigious Gilman International Scholarship to study abroad in the spring of 2022.
While applying for the scholarship, the awardees worked closely with the International Programs office, which promotes the global interests, research, and development of Saint Mary’s students.
The spring Gilman winners are:
Anahy Torres-Vega ’23, psychology and global studies, South Korea Program
Kellie Krohn ’23, biology, Rome Program
Kylie Henry ’24, Africana studies, South Africa Program (deferred to fall 2022)
The scholarship allows students to make the most of their studies abroad, said Laura Elder, chair of the Department of Global Studies. “Year after year, our students say that studying abroad is the best experience of their lives regarding self-discovery and independence,“ she said. “Global Studies and the Gilman award gives them the additional resources they need to venture into the unknown with the confidence to succeed.”
Since Gilman scholars complete a service project within six months after they return, there are some who give their experience back to Saint Mary’s.
“Working as a study abroad peer advisor and/or a Gilman peer advisor to promote study abroad, international education, and the Gilman Scholarship, students can use their new skills to serve the Saint Mary’s community and the people around them,” said Alice Yang, director for International Education and Gilman campus advisor.
Sponsored by the US Department of State, the Gilman Scholarship enables students of limited means to gain proficiency in diverse languages and cultures that are critical to their academic and career development. Awardees receive up to $5,000 to apply toward their study abroad program costs. Critical Need Language Awards provide up to an additional $3,000.
“I am thrilled that there have been 26 students in the past decade who were able to explore the world through the Gilman Scholarship,” Yang said.
For more information about international education at Saint Mary’s, visit the International Programs or the Global Studies offices.
