An NDSU sophomore has received the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Elina Smith, a computer science major from Fargo, received the $2,000 scholarship to study overseas spring semester.
“The Gilman Scholarship lets me immerse myself entirely in a different culture from my own while studying abroad,” said Smith, who will study at Korea University in Seoul, South Korea. “I can now put forth my drive into my academics, pursue more opportunities to broaden my view of the world and craft more global connections. Without this scholarship, the burden of financial stress would weigh on me throughout my entire time abroad. I am so grateful to have a stress-free environment to fully embrace the study abroad experience and become a representative of American diversity in my host country.”
The program is funded by Congress and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Scholarships are administered by the Institute of International Education.
“We were thrilled to learn of Elina’s scholarship award,” said Alicia Kauffman, director of International Student and Study Abroad Services. “This competitive scholarship provides students with funding for study abroad opportunities. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship program emphasizes the importance of expanding students’ understanding of the world through study abroad, and these awards help make such experiences a reality by reducing financial barriers.”
The program serves students who have been traditionally underrepresented to study abroad. Since it was established in 2001, more than 22,000 undergraduates at about 1,100 institutions have received awards. They have studied in more than 140 countries.
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