Three University of Nevada, Reno students received the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The students, who are enrolled with the University Studies Abroad Consortium, will receive up to $5,000 to study abroad during the spring 2015 semester.

Administered by the Institute of International Education, the Gilman scholarship program aims to diversify students who study and intern abroad and the countries and regions where they go.  Students receiving a Federal Pell Grant from two- and four-year institutions who will be studying abroad or participating in a career-oriented international internship for academic credit are eligible to apply.  The following are the students from the University who received the scholarship:  

• Dawniell Selving (Bangalore, India): "This program is great because not only am I given the opportunity to study at Christ University, but I also have the chance to volunteer in the rural community with people in need. This was a huge factor in choosing this program, as I have a special place in my heart for people who live in poverty."
• Parker Smith-Aoki (San Sebastián, Spain): "I am particularly interested in the program offered in San Sebastián, Spain for educational purposes and to fulfill a personal dream, as well.  The ability to become fluent in any language is enhanced significantly while living in the country itself. With my grandfather being born in Spain (having never met him), I would like the opportunity to learn from his culture, live on his land, and learn his language."
• Jennyfer Llamas (Florianópolis, Brazil): "Traveling to Brazil would mean living a new kind of lifestyle in a culture. Everything about Brazil is fascinating to me. The current development of the cities, the music, and the beautiful natural environments are just some aspects that most intrigue me about Brazil. I think Brazilians have a great appreciation of family, hospitality, and traditions. The humbleness and the overall celebration of life of the hard working people of Brazil gives me hope."  

USAC is committed to providing high-value, affordable study abroad programs and making those programs accessible to all students. In addition to maintaining modest fees, USAC works to help students find the resources to be able to afford to study abroad. USAC awards over $500,000 in scholarships and discounts each year to assist USAC students with their study abroad expenses. There is a dedicated scholarship advisor to assist students in finding and applying for study abroad scholarships.  

For more information about USAC, visit usac.unr.edu.