Overview
Drs. Michael L. and Darlene M. McNulty Scholarship will provide competitive, merit-based scholarships for undergraduate students who study abroad in West Africa, preference Ghana. Students with diverse majors in a variety of disciplines are encouraged to apply for this scholarship. Scholarship recipients should plan to study for, at least, one semester of an academic year program.
One (1) $1,000 Drs. Michael L. and Darlene M. McNulty Study Abroad Scholarship will be awarded for a semester-length or academic year program.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicant must:
- be an undergraduate, full-time, degree-seeking UI student in good academic standing
- have a minimum 3.33 UI cumulative GPA as reported on the unofficial UI grade report
- have completed at least 12 semester hours by the application deadline
- plan to study in West Africa for at least one semester of an academic year
About the Drs. Michael and Darlene McNulty Scholarship
A generous gift from Drs. Michael and Darlene McNulty established a scholarship fund to support undergraduate students studying abroad in West Africa. Two impactful experiences sparked their interest in West Africa. In 1965 the couple lived in Ghana while Michael conducted research at the University of Ghana. In 1970 Michael and Darlene, along with their two children, lived in Nigeria while Michael was a visiting professor at the University of Ibadan. Michael McNulty had a distinguished career at the University of Iowa as a geography professor prior to serving as interim associate provost of International Programs in 1993. He was then named associate provost in 1995 and worked in that role until 1999. Darlene McNulty (PhD ’80) worked as a teacher for many years before opening a successful daycare center.
“Michael’s and Darlene’s scholarship continues to open pathways for students in an emerging part of the world. Their generosity allows Hawkeyes to form connections that will last a lifetime. They have forever touched the lives of students across Iowa and across the world. We are deeply grateful for their kindness and their dedication to making global experiences available to everyone.” Russ Ganim, associate provost and dean of International Programs
Selection Procedure and Criteria
- academic and personal objectives which are clearly defined and realistic
- academic achievement and preparation
- the anticipated impact of your choice in light of your academic discipline/major
- quality and completeness of the essay submissions
- factors leading you to select the country for study
- contribution of the study abroad experience to the student's overall academic program
- evidence of maturity, motivation, and adaptability to a different cultural environment
Applicant Procedure
Students may enroll in a formal academic study abroad program sponsored by the University of Iowa, or another accredited U.S. university, or an exchange organization, or may enroll directly in a foreign university. All eligible enrollments must be approved and facilitated by UI Study Abroad. Some locations may not be approved for study when there are elevated health or safety risks.
Students who meet the requirements listed above are encouraged to apply for this scholarship. The application packet includes the application form, two essays (Statement of Proposed Study and Personal Statement - each 750 words or less), UI Award Letter and an unofficial grade report (both available from MyUI Student Portal), and two letters of reference (UI faculty/Teaching Assistants).
To apply for this scholarship, complete ONE Semester Merit Scholarship Cover Sheet and ONE Semester Merit Scholarship Application, indicating the scholarship along with any other requirement(s) listed specific to the scholarship. This process will result in the submission of ONE application, required essays, required reference letters, and grade report. Incomplete application packets will NOT be accepted.
Submission Deadline
Fall 2024 - Thursday, March 7, 2024
Spring 2025 - TBA
*The final deadline listed for the corresponding application submission is the date listed above. No applications will be accepted after this deadline!