The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
An opportunity to study abroad without worrying too much about the cost is bliss.
A brief explanation of the scholarship plus testimonials of its effect to me and other alumni/us.
If eligible, please apply. Don’t let this pass by. Never hurts to try.
I asked a couple of alumni of the Gilman Scholarship Program and classmates from my Japan Trip. Here is what they have to say about their thoughts of studying abroad, and the Gilman Scholarship. I hope this can give you a little perspective.
What is Gilman Scholarship?
The Gilman Scholarship is a grant for undergraduates who are deciding to study or intern abroad that are currently enrolled in a two-year or four-year college or university that struggle to fund their trip. Gilman encourages students to study languages, especially critical need languages which can be awarded. In all honesty, this scholarship is more of an opportunity to your future thanks to a large community of caring alumnus and the program itself. Gilman offers various workshops to help alumnus with their career.
The Impact of the Gilman Scholarship
The Gilman Scholarship was the first ever scholarship that I ever applied to. Furthermore, it was competitive, meaning the chances for me to win was slim, or, so I thought. I applied to the Gilman Scholarship with encouragement and strong support from my study abroad advisor, although my pessimistic self knew I wasn’t going to win. Months later, I was surprised that I won.
Surely it aided my study abroad trip, but it made me realize the value and potential that I obtain.
Something I was unable to see for myself. For that, I thank them.
Eligibility
- United States Citizen
- An undergraduate student in an accredited institution in the United States
- Receiving a Federal Pell Grant
- In the process of applying to, or accepted for, a study or internship abroad program
Essays
There are two essays – Statement of Purpose and Follow-On Service Project Proposal.
Statement of Purpose
This essay will introduce who you are and your study abroad or internship program. Remember, you cannot assume they know who you are so write down important highlights.
- Why study abroad? What led you to study abroad?
NOTE: We all want to travel the world, so get more personal with this question. - Describe the study or intern program.
NOTE: Mention the impact of the program itself. - What impacts will studying or interning abroad have to your academics and future goals?
NOTE: You want to mention your weaknesses and how this program can improve them. - What challenges, if any, will you have while being abroad?
NOTE: Not only do you want to mention wherever you will be at but also the challenges that are behind in your home state.
Follow-On Project Essay
This essay will explain how you will inspire others to study or intern abroad. For example, this website is my follow-on project. What matters the most in this project is the affect that it’ll have. As long as it affects a community or a small group of people, then it’s a valid project!
- What are you good at? Could you incorporate that into your project?
- Who is your target audience? How will this project impact your them?
- Who could you collaborate with to bring awareness of your project? The International Office / Study Abroad Board at your community college?
Critical Need Language Award Essay
If you are taking a language course while being abroad that is part of the Critical Need Language by the U.S. Department of State, then this optional essay is rewarded up to $8,000.
Submission
Application Dates
Cycle 1
APPLICATION OPENS: Mid-August
APPLICATION CLOSES: October 6th
Cycle 2
APPLICATION OPENS: Mid-January
APPLICATION CLOSES: March 3rd
JOSE’S TIPS
- Always have someone proofread it your essays. preferably your advisor or a staff from the Writing Center in your school.
- Make sure the application has the correct information. Read it before sending it in! If you aren’t sure of a question, ask your advisor!
- Make sure who the correct Financial Aid and International Office advisor are.
- Begin the application AS SOON AS POSSBILE!