“In recognizing the top institutions with students studying abroad as Gilman Scholars, the United States continues to prioritize its commitment to provide access and equity to international experiences for all Americans,” said Lee Satterfield, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs.
At the height of the COVID-19 global health pandemic, which created severe obstacles for students to study abroad and participate in international educational exchanges, the Gilman Scholarship was able to support nearly 800 Gilman Scholars from 48 U.S. states and territories to study or intern, both in-person and virtually, in 77 locations around the world.
“The ability for our students to study abroad and have their worldview expanded in ways that broaden their life experience, interest, and career opportunities is incredibly important to our College,” stated Dr. Ashanti Hands, President of San Diego Mesa College. “Studying abroad builds confidence, adds context to classroom learning and develops skills that can be used for a lifetime. We are proud that our students are global citizens and love how their unique experiences breathe life into our vision of being the leading college of equity and excellence.”
Additionally, the Gilman Program helps these students gain the professional skills, language abilities, and knowledge needed for successful careers. The high academic performing and socio-economically diverse American undergraduate students who study overseas with support from the Gilman Program also build relationships, foster mutual understanding, and represent American culture and values, including in developing countries and countries critical to U.S. national security. Since the program’s inception in 2001, more than 35,000 Gilman Scholars from all U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories have studied or interned in more than 155 countries around the globe.
The Gilman Scholarship is a public diplomacy program of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and is implemented by the Institute of International Education. (IIE). To learn more about the Gilman Scholarship and how its diverse alumni pursue meaningful careers in the public, non-profit, and private sectors, contact [email protected] or visit Gilman Scholarship.