As a Black woman, I was nervous about traveling in a different country by myself for the first time. During my time abroad I quickly discovered that my fears were for naught.

"If I said this was my first time abroad, I would be lying, but I can definitely say that it was one of the most treasured and cherished moments of my life. I don’t think putting this study abroad experience into words could truly capture the essence of the time I spent in England."

The Leona Zaharis Scholarship is a fund intended primarily for first-generation students that was established by Cathy Zaharis (BBA finance ’82) in memory of her mother.

"Broadening your horizons can sometimes be a cheap phrase, but an accurate one, nonetheless. Being abroad doesn’t mean entering a new world, it means that your idea of the world itself expands. That type of experience teaches you a lot about people and also yourself."

"My time there was absolutely wonderful, and regardless of your background, I can assure you studying abroad will benefit your college experience. This semester taught me so much, both within the classroom and beyond it."

"Even though I spent most of my time connecting with Norwegian culture, perspective, and ideas, I’m privileged to say that I had the wonderful opportunity of connecting with cultures all around the world through my international peers."

"Studying abroad is not about comparing your journey to others, but rather reflecting on your own, unique discoveries including another culture and learning a bit more about yourself."

Four students from the University of Iowa have been granted a prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.

Staff will introduce you to the Gilman, coach you on how to fill out the application, and let you know what scholarship reviewers are looking for in an applicant. 

"Would I truly be accepted by this program, these new people, this new country? The answer I found, very quickly after my arrival in France, was yes. A resounding, whole hearted yes."

"I was the first of my family to spend a long period of time abroad and that came with a lot of uncertainty... I was unsure how I was going to be perceived as a Black and Native American woman, but to my surprise, Greece had more diversity than I imagined, and I felt very accepted."

"Studying abroad is one of my best decisions and moving to a foreign country gave me a whole set of skills that I would never have if I had stayed home."