Friday, November 16, 2012

Opportunity to study abroad

The opportunity to study abroad is a truly extraordinary opportunity. My recent yearlong study abroad at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England became the most transforming experience in my life. Not only was I enriched by the significant amount of independent research I conducted for my courses at UEA, but I also built many invaluable friendships with other international and English students. Additionally, I was fortunate to travel all throughout Europe from Rome to Barcelona to Paris and beyond.

My greatest challenge was funding my program. My search for scholarships, however, revealed that financial support does in fact exist. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program became a cornerstone in the patchwork of scholarships I received to afford me the opportunity to study abroad. Living and studying in another country had a profound impact on me. I encourage all UO students to take advantage of the wide range of study abroad opportunities our university has to offer. Furthermore, for those students who have the dream, but lack the means, seek financial assistance. Review the Gilman Scholarship.