Four TAMIU Students Awarded Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships to Study Abroad
What are you doing this summer?
Four students at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) received the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, to study abroad this summer.
Cynthia Chapa- Spanish major, Melissa Chávez-Communication Disorders major, Mariana González- English major, and Alexandra Vásquez- Elementary Education major, will study abroad in cities including Málaga and Madrid, Spain; Paris, France, and India.
The Gilman program aims to diversify student populations that study and intern abroad by encouraging undergraduates who might not otherwise participate due to financial barriers. Recipients are awarded up to $5,000 in assistance towards their internship or study abroad program costs.
Gilman Scholars have an opportunity to expand understanding of global issues, as well as first-hand experience learning a language, culture, and economy. This in turn makes them better prepared to assume leadership roles and thrive within society.
Founder of the Program, former Congressman Benjamin A. Gilman, who served in the House of Representatives for 30 years and chaired the House of Foreign Relations Committee, believed that studying abroad “not only exposes students to alternate views, but also adds an enriching social and cultural experience.” Gilman also believed that traveling abroad motivates students to become active on a global scale.
The Program is administered by the Institute of International Education (IIE). According to Allan Goodman, President and CEO of IIE, developing and building ties with other countries is central to American diplomacy and success.
“International education is one of the best tools for developing mutual understanding and building connections between people from different countries,” Goodman claims.
He concluded that American ties made during students’ international studies are important to the country in times of conflict as well as in times of peace.
For more on the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, please visit http://www.iie.org/Programs/Gilman-Scholarship-Program.
For additional information, please contact Triana Gonzalez, email triana.gonzalez@tamiu.edu, call 956.326.256, or visit offices located in Student Center, suite 226. –This Story by PRMIS Spring Student Intern, Sarahi Lopez.
Left to right are Melissa Chávez, Mariana González, Alexa Vázquez, and Cynthia Chapa.