Recently returned from abroad, this winter’s Diversity Ambassadors Scholarship recipients share what they thought of their experiences and what advice they might have for others considering studying abroad. 

Up to ten $1,000 Diversity Ambassador Scholarships are awarded for the spring and fall semesters or academic year, and up to ten scholarships are awarded for summer and winter sessions. 

Through outreach efforts and scholarships, UI Study Abroad is opening up opportunities for those underrepresented in study abroad.

Michaela Zimmer, a Diversity Ambassador, completed a summer internship in Kisumu, Kenya.

Leah Cooke won a Diversity Ambassador Scholarship to study abroad in Florence, Italy.

Maya Torrez, Diversity Ambassador, studied on the UI faculty-led Ancient Perspectives, Modern Eyes program.

Alex Hefel received a Diversity Ambassador Scholarship to study abroad and conduct research in South Africa in spring 2022.

Julia Nightser, UI Diversity Ambassador, participated in the UI faculty-led Iowa Hispanic Institute Program in summer 2022.

Sauda Abdullahi, a fourth-year public health student, spent a semester in the UK to learn about public health practices including closing the food access gap.

Carmela Furio was awarded a Diversity Ambassador scholarship and traveled to Italy on the USAC Viterbo program.

Kevin Drahos reflects on his study abroad experience in Madrid, and how the LGBTQ+ community and related traditions are perceived and understood.

Diversity Ambassador Dean Omar spent a summer in Jordan, conversing with locals, completing an internship, and feeling right at home.