Andrew Kelleher of New Albin is one of 10 UI students - all hailing from hometowns in Iowa - who have been granted a prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.

"As a first-generation student who had never left the country before, I was worried about how I would navigate this chapter in my life, but once immersed in another culture, you will be so glad you stepped outside of your comfort zone."

Nine University of Iowa undergraduates are pursuing internships abroad with support from the Dr. Ken Magid Scholarship, established in 2022 by alumna Linda Baker. Recipients share their gratitude, detailing how their internships in countries like Chile, Ireland, and Australia are shaping their future careers and personal growth.

Dawn Thomas (MAT secondary English education ‘23) was awarded a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship for 2023-24. Originally set to embark on her teaching journey in Israel, unforeseen circumstances led to the cancellation of her assignment. She is now serving as an English language assistant and English art assistant for students ranging from 3 years old through those in sixth grade, who speak Spanish and Gallego, in Galicia, Spain.

Out of thousands of applicants nationwide, 10 students from the University of Iowa (UI), all hailing from hometowns in Iowa, have been granted a prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, which awards the recipient up to $5,000 to study abroad. 

Five University of Iowa undergraduate students are able to study abroad thanks to support from the Leona Zaharis Scholarship, a fund that was established in 2022 by Cathy Zaharis (BBA finance ’82) in memory of her mother.

With support from the Stanley-UI Foundation Support Organization, the Global Access Ambassador Scholarship program provides up to 10 $1,000 scholarships for the spring and fall semesters or academic year, and up to 10 scholarships for the summer and winter sessions.

Spencer Cooper-Ohm, who received a BA in economics and English & creative writing from the University of Iowa in May 2024, is the winner of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Award to Kosovo for 2024-25.

Here are just seven of the many reasons why Iowa students choose to study abroad, and why you should consider taking advantage of this transformative opportunity too.

"As an international student, I've received incredible support and resources from the university. From language assistance to cultural adaptation programs, the university has gone above and beyond to ensure my success."

With support from the Stanley-UI Foundation Support Organization, the Global Access Ambassador Scholarship program provides up to 10 $1,000 scholarships for the spring and fall semesters or academic year, and up to 10 scholarships for the summer and winter sessions. 

Claire Breger-Belsky, who received an MFA in literary translation from the University of Iowa in May 2023, is the winner of a Fulbright Study/Research Grant in translation to Argentina for 2024-25.