We are excited to announce our ISA scholarship winners for summer 2024! Congratulations to Alexandra, Joanna, Melangelo, Alaa, Jenna, Megan, Makenna, Julia, Kim, and Anthony.
From enjoying savory tapas in Spain to exploring Machu Picchu alongside the llamas, our scholarship winners share what they’re looking forward to most while abroad. We asked them a few questions to learn more about their stories, too!
MEET THE WINNERS
Alaa I.
Home University: University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Headed to: Meknes, Morocco
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? The ISA study abroad program in Meknes, Morocco, focused on Arabic and International Studies will allow me to not only fully immerse myself in the rich, dynamic culture of Morocco but will also satisfy my immediate professional goals of achieving proficiency in Arabic. Inside the classroom, I will be able to have the opportunity to continue to learn Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), and the widely spoken dialect of Darija outside the classroom will satisfy my curiosity about diverse Arabic dialects while also adding to my French language background. Additionally, the program takes place at the ISA Meknes Study Center located in a facility home to several local NGOs working to promote human rights and economic and social development. This will provide me with a unique opportunity to engage with people who work in the same field I hope to enter.
What does this scholarship mean to you? As a child of immigrants and a first-generation college student, I have spent most of my life restricted by financial struggles that have impacted my ability to experience a wide array of opportunities, and this scholarship feels like kicking down those barriers that have held me back for so long. This scholarship will allow me to grow as a learner and a global citizen and connect with my linguistic and cultural roots in the heart of North Africa while embracing who I am and using the knowledge I learn abroad to guide my journey in helping the greater world!
What are you most looking forward to? I am looking forward to the opportunity to take courses in Arabic and International Studies, the chance to live with a host family, and to learn in a smaller community that lends itself to language immersion. Furthermore, I am excited to expand my knowledge of the region by focusing on North Africa and the various challenges they face, particularly by engaging with the local NGOs. I am especially excited to explore Morocco through excursions in Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Fes, and Volubilis. The opportunities to explore the country will give me a better understanding and appreciation for the diversity of the Muslim world and North Africa.
Alexandra F.
Home University: Howard University
Headed to: Málaga, Spain
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? In my academic pursuits focused on public policy, advocacy, and educational equity, I chose Málaga, Spain because I have a personal and career goal of being fluent in Spanish. Being bilingual will provide me with invaluable primary sources and the ability to create deeper connections with individuals whose lives I hope to positively impact. Through my studies in Málaga, Spain, I’ll not only enhance my Spanish proficiency but also engage with diverse perspectives, furthering my ability to advocate for equitable change. Finally, as I have never traveled to Europe or Spain, I was greatly intrigued by this opportunity to experience a new country.
What does this scholarship mean to you? Receiving the ISA/TEAN Summer Study Abroad DEI Scholarship is a profound opportunity for me. As a political science and Spanish double major dedicated to addressing societal inequalities, this scholarship allows me to strengthen my Spanish skills in Málaga, Spain. This scholarship represents a recognition of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, and global experiences. It provides me with the opportunity to deepen my understanding of global issues and cultures while also empowering me to contribute to the DEI efforts in my community and future career. This scholarship isn’t just about financial aid; it’s a gateway to personal growth, cultural understanding, and impactful change.
What are you most looking forward to? For my summer study abroad in Málaga, Spain, I’m most looking forward to the immersive experience of living and learning in a new culture, all while soaking up the Mediterranean sun! I can’t wait to deepen my understanding of the Spanish language and culture through authentic interactions with locals, exploring historical sites, and trying traditional cuisine. Additionally, I’m excited about the opportunity to broaden my perspective on global issues, gain new insights into my field of study, and forge connections with students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. Amidst my academic pursuits, I’m thrilled to embrace the joy and spontaneity that come with navigating a new country while making memories that will last a lifetime. Whether I’m spending lazy afternoons at the beach, savoring delicious tapas with friends, or trying my hand at flamenco dancing, I am more than excited for the adventure and growth that awaits me in Málaga!
Anthony G.
Home University: University of Idaho
Headed to: Milan, Italy
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? I was inspired by the architecture and the overall beauty of Italy.
What does this scholarship mean to you? This scholarship to me means that I am one step closer to my study abroad journey.
What are you most looking forward to? Besides classes, I am most looking forward to learning about the culture, tasting different foods, and exploring Italy.
Jenna F.
Home University: Grand Valley State University
Headed to: Málaga, Spain
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? I wanted a location where I could practice my Spanish language skills and gain more cultural experience. The more I heard about Málaga and this program, it seemed perfect for what I was looking for. It will allow me to be immersed in the culture and language through my homestay experience, besides taking Spanish courses to increase my knowledge. The length and focus of the program are perfect for me. Plus, I have been researching the city, and it looks beautiful. I am excited to see it for myself!
What does this scholarship mean to you? This scholarship has opened up a whole new world of possibilities. I am so grateful for this opportunity to travel and see more of the world. This scholarship has expanded my freedom to gain new experiences and participate fully in whatever opportunities are available to me. I have not been able to travel outside the U.S. yet, and this scholarship has helped support me to go abroad. I am so thankful for ISA and this opportunity!
What are you most looking forward to? I am most looking forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone and being challenged in a new way. I am confident I will meet people and learn so much during my time abroad. I am excited to see the landscapes and the city of Málaga. Also, I am looking forward to growing my Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge. All around, I cannot wait for my program!
Joanna H.
Home University: University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Headed to: San José, Costa Rica
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? I was drawn to Costa Rica because ofitsr vibrant and lively culture, which offers a rich and diverse experience. As a Spanish-speaking country, it is the perfect place for me to enhance my Spanish and learn medical terminology in Spanish which was a key factor for my chosen program. As I aim to pursue a career as a physician assistant, communicating effectively with my patients in Spanish is greatly important to me. Choosing Costa Rica to study and serve abroad felt like a natural fit to practice and refine my Spanish. Additionally, with roots in Central America, I felt a deep connection to the region and saw studying in Costa Rica as an opportunity to explore and reconnect with my heritage while experiencing a new culture firsthand.
What does this scholarship mean to you? Receiving the Community Engagement Scholarship has been a blessing. I have always been driven to help others, so this scholarship not only validates my efforts, but it also empowers me to continue my commitment to service while pursuing a lifelong dream. As a first-generation student, it has been a huge weight off my shoulders financially and also opens doors that would otherwise have been closed. I look forward to continuing Kalyn’s legacy of service and compassion during my academic and service-learning program in Costa Rica, which has been made possible with the help of this scholarship.
What are you most looking forward to? I am so excited to be in Costa Rica, where I can meet new people and embrace a new environment full of life and energy! There is so much beautiful wildlife that I can’t wait to explore and see all that Costa Rica is famous for. Being able to get involved in service within a healthcare setting is also another highlight for me and allows me to witness and learn firsthand about its healthcare system. Overall, I’m just excited to soak up everything Costa Rica has to offer and make the most out of this incredible opportunity.
Julia S.
Home University: East Tennessee State University
Headed to: Salamanca, Spain
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? I have studied Spanish for years, and I feel that there is no better way to master a language than to fully immerse yourself in the culture where you’re speaking it every day.
What does this scholarship mean to you? The Summer Pathways Scholarship means a lot to me. Any amount of money helps out tremendously, and receiving this scholarship has taken an extra weight off my shoulders.
What are you most looking forward to? I am so excited to meet new friends, take new chances, and improve my language skills while abroad. I am also looking forward to experiencing a different way of living and gathering a new perspective on different cultures.
Kim R.
Home University: University of North Texas at Dallas
Headed to: Barcelona, Spain
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? What inspired me to choose my study abroad destination Barcelona, Spain, was their different approach to life compared to here in the U.S. I wanted to experience something outside the normal workforce we know here in the U.S.
What does this scholarship mean to you? This scholarship, to me, means opportunity. As a first-gen going abroad was more of a dream than a reality. This scholarship makes that dream of going abroad a now-approachable goal.
What are you most looking forward to? I am looking forward to the normal day to day of someone living in Spain. I want to see how other people maneuver their day and hopefully pick up some cool habits!
Makenna D.
Home University: University of Kentucky
Headed to: Florence, Italy
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? Why I decided to study abroad in Florence, Italy, is because it has always been my number one place to visit. I have never been outside of the United States, and when I found out that I was able to study abroad, I immediately thought about Florence, Italy. Many people I know have visited or studied abroad in Florence and always say how beautiful the city is.
What does this scholarship mean to you? Receiving this scholarship has meant so much to me. This scholarship is helping me to be able to have this amazing and a one-in-a-lifetime experience. I am so grateful that ISA has scholarships like this one to give to students to fulfill their dreams of studying abroad.
What are you most looking forward to? There are many things that I am excited about when studying abroad. I think the most exciting thing is living in Florence and being a part of the culture for three months. I am excited to study the culture, be surrounded by the locals, and live in a beautiful city. I am also excited about meeting students in the ISA program and going through this experience with other people. Also excited to travel to other surrounding countries while also studying abroad and getting to learn about many other cultures.
Megan H.
Home University: Missouri State University
Headed to: Florence, Italy
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? I was inspired to choose Florence, Italy, as my study abroad destination because of its rich culture in art and fashion history. I have always dreamed of taking my love of fashion globally, and I cannot imagine a city that I am more excited to start my future with.
What does this scholarship mean to you? Being awarded this scholarship is such an honor and an affirmation for me. Choosing to study abroad was a hard decision because of its financial implications, so being awarded this financial aid means that I am supported in this decision. Since other people believe in this opportunity for me, it is more than enough affirmation to keep reaching for my dream.
What are you most looking forward to? I am most looking forward to seeing fashion through the lens of a culture and history far different from my own. I cannot wait to learn new processes and make connections with people I would normally not have the opportunity to meet.
Melangelo P.
Home University: Yale University
Headed to: Cusco, Peru
What inspired you to pick your study abroad destination? I have always wanted to visit Peru, especially Machu Picchu. One of my good friends from high school, Aaliyah, is Peruvian, and I remember her going to visit Peru the summer after our freshman year. After she got back, she told me all about the trip and showed me pictures—I knew I wanted to eventually go too one day. Peru itself is such a beautiful and versatile country as well. It has so many different types of landscape, ranging from the mountains and valleys in Cusco to the rainforest in Peruvian Amazonia to the desert and dunes of Huacachina, and even to the beautiful beaches in Lima. I could not be more excited!!
What does this scholarship mean to you? I cannot emphasize enough how much this scholarship is helping me out. Especially after the pandemic hit, finances have been pretty rough. My single mother and I have had to work extra hours to stay afloat, so any sort of financial assistance means the world to not only me but to her, too. The ISA scholarship gives me room to not have to worry if I will have enough money to live comfortably throughout the entirety of my program, which is something I have not been used to over the past few years. I am forever grateful.
What are you most looking forward to? I I cannot contain my excitement when I think about conversing with the local Indigenous peoples of Peru and immersing myself in Andean culture!! I can’t wait to explore, whether it’s for class or if it is a separate excursion offered by the program. I also can’t wait to pet the llamas (and alpacas).
ABOUT ISA’S SCHOLARSHIPS
ISA offers generous scholarships to help make study abroad a reality. No matter your program or term length, we have a variety of merit- or need-based scholarship opportunities for you!
There are also a number of university, local, and national scholarships you may be eligible for. Be sure to check with your Study Abroad and Financial Aid offices to see if they offer any scholarships or additional information.
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