University of Nebraska-Lincoln students Luis Martinez and Connor McFayden were awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, to study abroad during spring 2019 semester.
Martinez is a senior art major who will complete a studio program at the University of Seville, Spain. Bilingual in Spanish and English, he enjoys painting scenes that reflect family traditions and culture, working to understand the relationship between Mexican-Americans and society today. Upon his return from Spain, Martinez hopes to organize an exhibition in the MEDICI Gallery in Richards Hall to share his experience.
“I think you definitely need to get that different experience, too… I think it’s really important that you’re not stuck to one particular area,” Martinez said. “[Studying abroad] just gives you a chance to experience the world.”
Read the original feature article about Martinez and learn about his passion for art that drives him to study abroad on the School of Art, Art History and Design website.
McFayden, a junior environmental studies major, was awarded additional funding on top of the base scholarship for studying a critical language. He will study Hindi and social development in Jaipur, India for four months, followed by a four-week internship. During his experience abroad, McFayden will stay with a host family and plans to blog about his experiences. Upon his return to Nebraska, he hopes to present a summary of his trip to Sustain UNL, a student organization in which he’s a member.
“Having a global perspective will help me develop personally, academically, and professionally,” McFayden said.
Read the original feature article about McFayden and discover his goals for studying abroad on the IANR Global Engagement website.
The Gilman Scholarship is a grant program that enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad. To apply, students must be U.S. citizens and Federal Pell Grant-eligible while attending a two- or four-year college. The program, administered by the Institute of International Education since its inception in 2001, enables American students to gain proficiency in diverse languages and cultures. Awardees receive up to $5,000 to apply towards a study abroad or internship program, with additional funding available to study a critical language.
The next cycle of Gilman Scholarship applications for summer 2019, fall 2019 and academic year 2019-20 programs are due March 5, 2019. Contact the Education Abroad Office for more details on the scholarship or to make an advising appointment.