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33 Tips for Applying for the Gilman Scholarship from Past Gilman Winners

33 Tips on Applying for the Gilman Scholarship

Will you be applying for scholarships to study abroad?

Whether you need financial support or not, scholarships make studying abroad a more enjoyable experience by easing some of the financial burdens. USAC offers a wide variety of scholarships and discounts each year to help students fulfill their study abroad dreams, and there are many third-party scholarship opportunities students can also apply for. One popular option is the Gilman Scholarship. This scholarship has been helping students study abroad since 2001 and every year a large portion of USAC students are awarded funds.

Here are important deadlines to note. To get the specific application deadlines visit the Gilman Scholarship website .

A few former Gilman recipients shared their tips with us to help you get started on your application. We also learned more about why they chose their study abroad locations. Here’s what they had to say.

Teresa Dorado San Ramón, Costa Rica

I chose to study abroad in San Ramón, Costa Rica because the courses offered in the program coincided with my environmental science major in addition to being in a tropical environment. I wanted to experience first hand the efforts Costa Rica is making towards sustainability and conservation. Being fluent in Spanish, I knew I wanted to be able to communicate and learn as much of the culture and interact with locals.

I would encourage anyone who is eligible to apply and definitely have a mentor or their campus Gilman representative revise their application material. They are there to help!

Jonathan Blackmon Montevideo, Uruguay

I chose my location because it included both nontraditional destination travel and an intensive language component that would allow me to bring back a marketable skill with me to the United States. In addition, I interned at an institution serving lower-income marginalized communities and the ability to add this component really helped in the selection process. Being a representative of a traditional minority group in the U.S., I knew I wanted an internship revolving around public service to a similar group in Uruguay.

My advice for future Gilman applicants would be to pick a location and program that they can tailor to their future career goals. For example, I chose Spanish in Uruguay because I desired to be a Foreign Service Officer for the U.S. Department of State and bilingualism is a very marketable skill in today’s global economy.

Tania Gonzalez Reggio Emilia, Italy

I chose my program location because Reggio Emilia offered courses that fulfill my home university course requirements, and is a city that exhibits authenticity. Since it is not a huge city that attracts a lot of tourists, I was able to emerge myself in the Italian culture better.

The advice I have for other students wanting to apply for the Gilman Scholarship is to definitely go for it. The application process is certainly reasonable especially if you do get it.

Cindy Rodriguez Heredia, Costa Rica

I chose this location for various reasons. I wanted to learn more about Latin America and as well as exploring the country’s beautiful biodiversity.

My advice to future applicants is to start early and meet with an advisor who can help guide you.  I was honored to receive a scholarship of $5,000 and I am honestly very blessed to be given the opportunity.

Alexander Meyers Chengdu, China

I chose Chengdu, China for several reasons. People kept saying Chengdu was “China’s China” and fairly untouched by foreign influence, which has remained true. China appealed to me because I was interested in stories and literature and I grew up learning European/Western stories, so I thought it would be exciting to gain access to a new set of stories and traditions.

As for advice to anyone applying for the Gilman — be honest. If you tell the truth and let your passion show, Gilman will know.

McKenna Parker Bengaluru, India

I’ve always loved India since I was a little kid — the food, the movies, the clothes, the Hindi language — everything. It was a natural choice. I was also interested in how identity and culture play into healthcare and medicine. India is such a diverse country, and I wanted to experience something that was totally opposite and new to me.

My advice for applying for the Gilman: Think of a service project that is somehow unique to you and your past. Describe it in extreme detail. Find someone that you trust who can edit your essays, and not just someone who will sugar coat it. Find someone that will tear it apart and leave no stone unturned! Remember that the Gilman people who review your application know nothing about you except for what you write, so use your words carefully and creatively.

Jesi Naomi Florianópolis, Brazil

To be honest Brazil chose me.  I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go, but I knew I wanted it to be a place where music, the universal language, speaks loud and expressive arts are welcomed as a healthy part of everyday life. The location was between Africa and Latin America … and then, a USAC counselor told me Florianópolis, Brazil was the place for me!

Music was my major and I double majored in Latin American studies.  I wanted to bring back rhythm demonstrations, or music videos to future study abroad students in order to encourage the Gilman scholarship.  I planned on using videos, pictures, and interviews to show at international festivals and study abroad fairs.

My advice would be to start as EARLY as you can on the scholarship application and essays.  Order transcripts first thing! They take time to process and mail, and figuring out how to scan/upload them to the computer could get tricky. Have at least three people read the essays and have patience with the process. If it was anything like what I went through applying for scholarships was like having an extra class on top of 16 units — filling out applications and writing essays about my intentions for study abroad.   Take the essays seriously and use it as an opportunity to really understand your intentions, what are your goals for living in another country, what do you want to gain from this?  This gave me solid goals that I believe will definitely come true just because I wrote them down.

Gwyer Sinclair Bristol, England

As an engineering student who needed advanced and specialized coursework, my options were limited. A few schools offered the courses I needed, and from those, I chose based on interest in the area and language compatibility. My program with the University of Bristol introduced me to a world-class school with a great program for engineering and an interesting culture.

To other students who are applying for the Gilman Scholarship, understand what you are getting into, and identify the interesting or challenging parts of your chosen program. Then, when you write your application, speak to your personal goals and the way this experience will help you reach them. If your school has a dedicated study abroad office or advisor (most do), they will be a great help to you as well.

Christina Tran Lyon, France

I chose Lyon, France because I wanted a city where I could really explore French culture and customs in order to enhance my French speaking skills.

Give it your all. The Gilman helped me understand myself better, simply by letting my thoughts flow in my writing. Of course, I rewrote my essay about 30 times, but it’s worth it in the end.

Nikki Osgood Chiang Mai, Thailand

First of all, I wanted to study in a place completely different from Western culture. Thailand seemed to be a good match. I wanted to study in a Buddhist country since the values of compassion and respect are central to the philosophy. Personally, I was trying to develop my empathy and selflessness. Thai culture is very outwardly focused, caring about each other much more so than in America. I also chose the Chiang Mai program because of the opportunities to explore jungles and raft down rivers.

As for advice, I would talk to your Gilman advisor (if you have one) as much as possible. I had written the first draft of my personal statement which was far from satisfactory. I ended up scraping the first draft and completely rewriting it, using the advice from my advisor. Have them read it, edit it, and go back as many times as possible to ensure it illustrates how your experience led you to your chosen program. I would also think about an internship as it will boost your application.

Esther Bellinsky The Hauge, The Netherlands

I chose to study in The Hague, Netherlands for many reasons. I realized that as an individual focusing in the field of peace and conflict resolution with an International Relations degree, it was important for me to interact with different cultures, gain conceptual insight, and hands-on training, so my passion for peace and justice transforms into visible change. The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands (THUAS) gave me an opportunity to combine these principles together.

THUAS offers law and political science classes that focus on the international perspective, an ideal course of study for my major. NATO & International Security, Crisis Communication, and Human Rights Law & Conflict Resolution are some class titles that intrigued me. These courses fit my degree while allowing me to study through a global lens that UCD could not offer. THUAS also offers a unique opportunity called Project “Europe 21,” an intensive and practical six-week independent research project, where students work to identify a solution to a real-world problem posed by a local organization. Student teams work with local organization support members, and their solution is assessed by a committee of faculty and external representatives. This project would be a valuable opportunity to make my voice heard in world issues.

The city where I intended to study, The Hague, was dubbed “the home of international justice” by Ban Ki Moon, former U.N. Secretary General. I could not think of a better place to learn about peace issues than a city that is home to the famed Peace Palace and the International Criminal Court. The Hague is also home to international organizations such as the Global Human Rights Defense. I sought opportunities with international organizations and made connections in the field of international peace and global aid. On a personal level, this study abroad experience gave my degree a unique global aspect and built my problem-solving skills. It helped me gain a diverse worldview, become an independent thinker, and prepared me for a career in a cosmopolitan environment.

My advice for prospective Gilman scholars is to put the most effort into the written statement and service project, and write about what matters to you . Show purpose in your statement- explain how you prepared to study abroad and how this experience will allow you to achieve your goals. Finally, believe that you have the opportunity to study abroad even if your financial circumstances are more difficult than others and show the committee a clear link between your study abroad experience and your future career goals.

Vegas Kremser Bristol, England

From England’s popularity in a destination, television programs I grew up with, and their worldwide recognition for higher education, it is needless to say, I was attracted to the country. While most students would choose to study in the glamour and hustle bustle in the city of London, I selected the University of Bristol for their research excellence and mathematics area.

My advice for anyone interested in the Gilman, is to truly express your interest in detail in the essays on the application.  This is your chance to express yourself and describe your dream adventure abroad!

Boatran Tran Madrid, Spain

I went to both Europe and the Dominican Republic and absolutely loved my experience. I wanted to learn Spanish, but I was a tad too scared to go to South America or the Caribbean to complete my studies so I thought Madrid was the perfect medium for my comfort/curiosity zones. My minor was also in Spanish so I could kill two birds with one stone.

The only advice I have for those applying to the Gilman scholarship is to prepare a well-dictated personal statement. Keep it informative, but concise.

Jordan Burke Reggio Emilia, Italy

My major is psychology and my minor is child and family development, the focus of my education has always been based on children. While learning about the best practices to use for educating young children, one teaching method always stood out to me: the Reggio Emilia Approach . I chose to study abroad through the USAC Reggio Emilia program because of my interest in the Early Education classes offered in Reggio Emilia. I was so excited to study Early Education in the town the Reggio Emilia Approach originated in.

My advice: Start early! Have as many people read it as you can. My family and friends read draft after draft of each of my essays. If your school has a writing center, you can take it there. Study abroad advisors are happy to help too.

The Gilman Scholarship loves to award people of all types of backgrounds. If there is something that makes you special, make sure to mention it. For me, it was being a first-generation student.

Maintain the theme of your essay, but don’t be afraid to be funny or add personal anecdotes. The more you stand out, the more likely your chances of winning are.

The word count for the essay is just maximum. Don’t worry if you are under the word count. Make sure you answer every question but don’t make it too wordy just to reach the maximum word count.

Make sure your “Follow-on Service Project” is original and try to make it something you’re passionate about. They read a lot of essays suggesting blogs. Unless you have a new take on blogging or are already a blogger, I would avoid making your project based on one.

Be patient! Waiting to hear back was so stressful, but it was all worth it in the end.

Keenan Hunt Alicante, Spain

I chose to study abroad in Spain because of my love for both Spanish and European history. I’ve always been interested in learning about the history of Spain, from it’s pre-roman roots to more recent times. I decided that if I was going to study abroad anywhere, it would be valuable to experience the history and culture of Spain first-hand.

For other students applying for the Gilman scholarship, I would simply recommend being honest about your reasons for studying abroad and your financial need. Don’t be afraid to let your personality and personal history show in your application!

Ayleen Arteaga Valencia, Spain

I chose the program in Valencia because it fit both my academic and personal goals. As a biomedical engineering major , the majority of programs did not offer the courses I needed, such as physics, calculus, and chemistry. When I heard that the Polytechnic University of Valencia offered the courses I needed, I made it my number one choice. Additionally, I am a Mexican- American who has learned Spanish in my household and in class; however, I was interested in learning Spanish beyond words upon a page.

When it comes to applying for the Gilman, humble yourself in every aspect of the application. Do not be afraid to reach out to your Study Abroad advisors at your university so they can review your application. For the essay portions, write about your own life experiences with clarity, precision, and genuineness. Your ability to accurately convey your desires and goals will set you apart.

Kimberly Udemba Lyon, France

I chose my program and location because it was such a great value. I love France and like most, I was going to choose Paris, but Lyon is cheaper and also a really cool city.

My advice to future applicants would be to start the application EARLY! Organize your thoughts together for those essays and have people read them over and look at them. Look at example essays of past recipients. It makes a difference. Starting early gives you more time to catch mistakes and get those required documents in on time.

Emily Henline Yonsei, South Korea

I chose South Korea as my study abroad location for many reasons. A year before signing up for a program, I was trying to decide which country in Asia to study in because I always had an interest in Asian culture. Through my friends help and doing lots of research, I became infatuated with the idea of studying in South Korea. The language, culture, and technological advances are only some of the reasons I chose Korea.

Some advice I would give someone applying would be to have someone edit their essays a few times before submitting it. An English major friend of mine and I went back and forth editing these essays until I finally thought it was good enough to submit.

Dalila Alvarado Yonsei, South Korea

Being able to travel and experience South Korea’s culture had always been a dream of mine for many years. When I realized that there was a way I could not only make my dream come true, but also have the opportunity to study abroad through USAC, I did not hesitate to choose the South Korea program location.

I would tell students that although it might be challenging when writing the essays, to not be discouraged. Also, do not wait until the last minute to begin the application and the essays. The earlier they start the process, the more time it will give them to have everything updated in their application and the more time they will have to make any possible changes to their essays.

Kyra Taubel-Bruce Prague, Czech Republic

I chose to study in Prague, Czech Republic because, as a photojournalism and linguistics major , Prague is an epicenter for media studies and offers the opportunity to study a new language as well. I wanted to study and experience non-American media and culture in a location that I have been interested in for a long time.

I think the advice I would give to other Gilman applicants is to share a story in their application. A personal anecdote shares a little bit more about who you are as a person and the people reading your essay have an opportunity to get to know you. They read thousands of essays about why people want to study abroad and they don’t get to know everyone. Giving them that chance will make your essay stand out.

Ruvim Nochvay Chiang Mai, Thailand

I chose Thailand because I’ve been interested in Eastern culture/ religion for a long time now and I wanted to get a first-hand experience of it.

My advice for students who are applying for the scholarship is to make sure that their essays are proofread several times, as any grammatical issues immediately bar them from receiving it.

Maria Rios Bilbao, Spain

I chose Bilbao because the Basque Country holds a special place in my heart. I was fortunate enough to grow so close to someone who was raised in the Basque Country and calls it home. Her stories she shared about her life was so fascinating, and after she passed I was only eager to learn more.

Applying for the Gilman is no joke but it was the best decision I made. I spent weeks writing and refining my paper. I wanted to tell my story and I wanted to tell it in a captivating way. I wanted the scholarship committee to truly understand who I was and why I wanted to pursue this journey. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to read over your paper. I had three people read over it and revise it. It helps you out so much and gives you someone else’s perspective on what they are reading.

Brook Jensen Chaing Mai, Thailand

I choose to study abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand because it offers unique biology courses for my degree, and I want to experience the exotic, beautiful, and rich culture of Thailand.

I advise future students to use the resources available to you through the USAC and Gilman websites, especially the webinars.  They help you understand what they are looking for in their applicants, and they give you advice on how to make your application stand out.

Piersan Kimmers Pau, France

I chose to study abroad in Pau, France because I wanted to be fully immersed in the culture and traditions of a new country and to go to bed each night exhausted from the experience of the new culture. Pau is a smaller village in the southwest of France, located at the base of the Pyrenees and across the border from Spain. As an avid outdoors-woman, I was ecstatic to be at the base of such a mountain chain and experience all that it has to offer. In addition, I chose Pau because I wanted to know the locals and their traditions and hear the personal stories and struggles of the natives of the village and their ancestors.

I encourage other students hoping to apply for the Gilman Scholarship to sit down and go for it! When you’ve finished your essays, give them to multiple people to proofread. Don’t let them change the information you give, but use them to improve grammar and sentence flow. Your study abroad coordinator would be a great start to proofread your essays, as they have probably helped former Gilman recipients with theirs. Be authentic and speak from your heart!

Christina Nielsen Alicante, Spain

I pursued study in Spain to experience a facet of the Spanish language and Hispanic culture that I had less exposure to. A desire to become fluent in Spanish and learn about a country I had only read about in textbooks led me to choose Spain as my country to study abroad in. My desire to learn Spanish stemmed from my desire to connect and better communicate with nearly 20 percent of the U.S. population.

I chose Alicante because of the small program size and unique, less popular destination. By studying in Alicante, a less traveled to and studied in destination, I received a more authentic experience interacting with members of the community more and tourists less.

When applying for the Gilman Scholarship, don’t be afraid to seek guidance, especially if this is your first time applying for a competitive scholarship. Watch the videos on the Gilman website that take you through essay brainstorming and read through the submission tips. This can help you understand exactly what they are looking for and help vanquish writers block. Take advantage of your university’s study abroad office and/or scholarship and fellowship office.  Employees in these offices have great insight and essay revision skills. Many of them may have even scored the Gilman or scholarships of the like and know what graders will be looking for. If possible, talk to Gilman Alumni on your campus to get a feel for the process. Last but not least, be true to who you are and don’t be afraid to get personal in your essays. Adding unique details about who you are will make your application more memorable and more human.

Santiago Ricoy Gwangju, South Korea

I chose Korea because I had long been interested in learning to speak Korean.The opportunity to finally solidify some degree of fluency through immersion was something I simply could not pass up. I was told about how excellent Korean university engineering programs can be. However, I knew selecting a city and school needed to involve some strategy to maximize my Korean learning goals.

I found that the larger cities in Korea, while full of opportunities for interaction have become increasingly Westernized in culture. Therefore when meeting foreigners (as is common with international tourists in Seoul, and foreign government members in Daejeon), Koreans will be more inclined to speak in English. My research revealed that Gwangju was somewhat of a cultural hub with a history behind it, as seen manifested physically in the 5.18 memorial park. On top of that, it is small in comparison to other cities and I felt that I found deeper immersion in the culture there with these factors in combination.

I have too many tips but here’s what I would tell my past self if I could: Yes, you are applying; don’t even question it. Before you do ANYTHING, go through the Gilman scholarship portal and review all of the pages. Do not forget to double check and write down the character limits for your essays. Set your deadline at least two weeks before the scholarship deadline for all of your essays. You’ll need those two weeks to get input from friends, family, and your study abroad advisor; have your school’s writing center give suggestions to improve it; and go through to perfect the essays. You’ll make fewer mistakes if you aren’t rushing, trust me.

Christen Lena Gomez Madrid, Spain

I chose Madrid, Spain as my program location because it was a very important goal of mine to learn how to speak Spanish. I was also drawn to Madrid because of the accessibility of fine art museums and beautiful architecture.

My number one piece of advice for students applying for the Gilman scholarship is to take your time on the essay and the follow-on project proposal. Don’t just go with the first thing on your mind; really reflect on why you want to study abroad so that you can come up with an essay and project that will stand out from the crowd.

Chelsea Armsworthy Lüneburg, Germany

I chose Germany because I love the German language and culture. I studied German for years and was ready to be immersed in the culture and language.

My advice is just to be yourself in your essays. Start doing everything early; there are many videos and blogs about what you need to apply. Start gathering your things in a folder on your computer. Start those essays as early as possible. It is a process, but it is worth it.

If you’re feeling ready to apply for the Gilman Scholarship you can do so on the website .

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Wang Center for Global and Community Engaged Education

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Applying for the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship

If you are a Pell Grant recipient planning to study away, you may be eligible to apply for the Gilman Scholarship. This is a competitive scholarship funded by the US Department of State.

Q: Who should I list as my Study Abroad Advisor in my application?

A: Janissa Pheann

Preparing a Competitive Application

(Prepared by Virginia Tech)

Preparing to Apply

  • Know the rules and eligibility requirements.
  • Get to know the study away program you want to apply for. Spend time reading the website to make sure your plans match the goals and mission of the scholarship program. Reviewers want to see that you have chosen a program that is going to benefit you personally,academically, professionally in line with the scholarship’s goals. You can meet with the Study Away Advisor to discuss your program options and goals.
  • Know your audience. It is important to think about it in the perspective of the people giving the scholarship. Why should they select you for the scholarship? By learning about your audience and what they want, you can better tailor your scholarship application to the prompt. This will immediately set you apart from the students who did not bother doing the preliminary research.
  • Take off: Start working on your application early. Do not procrastinate and wait till the last minute.
  • Timeline: Create one with milestones for completing different sections of the application.
  • Take time: Do not rush. Essays take time and effort to draft, edit, review, and finalize.
  • Transcripts: Order yours in time (it takes several days to process transcript requests).
  • Turn in: Submit the application a few days early (in case the website crashes due to high volume applications being submitted last minute – this is known to have happened).

Writing Compelling Essays

Reviewers read hundreds of essays from students who are all writing about study abroad. The selection panelists’ only chance to get to know you is through your essays. So, these are crucial parts of the application. You must stand out. It is not necessarily the best applicant who will be the one who wins. Instead, it is often the applicant who does the best job of presenting their application.

  • Brainstorm to generate ideas, put initial thoughts on paper – a rough draft. Then organize the answers. Come back and refine the details. In early stage do not focus on word count. In the end, it’s a lot easier to write too much and have to cut your essays down than to have to add more substance.
  • Be creative. The most competitive applications are those that have interesting and original essays. Present yourself in an interesting and compelling manner but staying true to yourself. Write what matters to you! Don’t be afraid to be funny.
  • Keep writing on target. For example, if they want you to connect your future goals to your abroad program, do exactly that. There is no room for tangents when you are dealing with a word limit. Make sure each sentence counts. Reviewers want to see that you have thoughtfully answered the prompts. An example is to explain how you meet the criteria for the scholarship: do not just give reasons why you deserve a scholarship.
  • Hook the reader from the beginning. Catch their attention with an interesting, short anecdote or quote, or start with information about why you are unique. Make your opening sentence intriguing and your opening paragraph concise like a thesis statement. Let the reader know right from the start exactly what you are about, your reasons for wanting to go abroad and what the program will be like.
  • Get Personal. This is the place to tell everything about yourself. The essay is the only representation they have of you. This is when you can tell your whole life story, and someone will actually want to hear it. Let your personality and personal history show! If there is something that makes you special, make sure to mention it. Tell your story in a captivating way. Do not be shy. Contextualize information through personal examples, and storytelling of personal background.
  • Struggles and challenges. You can provide intimate details about your life but only as much as you want. If you are not comfortable disclosing certain information, you are not obligated to do so. But it is not necessarily a disadvantage to share your special circumstances. It’s a chance to let reviewer know of the hardships and challenges that you’ve overcome or may still be dealing with. As long as you can explain how you’re dealing with your struggles, or have overcome them, then it’s okay.
  • Be specific. Instead of saying, “I follow through on things,” give specific examples of how you followed through. Describethe results of your action. Instead of writing “Study abroad will help me grow as a person,” think of specific ways in which you expect to grow. Show, don’t tell. Find details to illustrate your personal narrative. Detail is good!
  • Ask ‘why’ 5 times. If you wrote “I have always wanted to…”, ask yourself ‘why’. If your answer is “I have always wanted to…because I strongly believe…”. Then ask yourself ‘why’ again (in this case: why do you strongly believe…?). So, by asking ‘why’ five consecutive times, your answers will deepen and become more thoughtful.
  • Avoid cliches: examples are “broaden horizons”, “out of my comfort zone”, “chance of a lifetime”.
  • Writing style should be somewhat formal. Choose words and sentence structure accordingly. Seek support from the Writing Center !
  • Repetitiveness: Be careful about being repetitive across the essays.

Learn more about Gilman application essays. You can watch a video on Composing Competitive Gilman Essays here .

Set aside enough time to revise multiple times!

  • Follow all the application instructions to the letter (formatting, character limit, addressing the prompt, addressing all questions, submitting by the DEADLINE!)
  • Spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and grammar. These kinds of errors are the worst. Run a spell check. Most importantly, check for correct grammar.
  • Accuracy. Incomplete or incorrect answers to even simple questions make a bad impression. For example: are the dates correct (study abroad program, estimated graduation dates)?Work with advisors. They can help brainstorm about what you might like to talk about before you start writing. They might give you a little direction. They may be able to help with essay content and make your application more competitive.
  • Have your essay proofread. One of the most important things to remember for any essay is to have it read by an advisor or professor. Spell checks and grammar checks are fine, but a good proofreader will find things that your word processing software will not. A new set of eyes will help catch any small mistakes you miss from staring at your essay for too long. A proofreader can make suggestions on ways to clarify a point that may not make sense to someone else. As a good rule of thumb: if the proofreader does not understand what you are talking about, then neither will the scholarship committee.
  • Work with your writing center on campus . These individuals have invaluable expertise in writing essays and can be a great resource anytime you need to prepare an essay.

Follow-On Service Project

Recipients of a Gilman Scholarship will need to complete a Follow-On service project. Below you’ll find an example from a PLU student.

gilman scholarship essay example

Annie Eats In Korea

Monday, june 13, 2016, gilman scholarship.

  • Why do you wish to study or intern abroad and what factors led you to this decision? What do you hope to gain from and what do you anticipate will be the impact of your experience abroad? 
  • Describe your study or intern abroad program. What factors led you to select this program and length of study?  
  • Why have you chosen your country of study? What factors led you to select this country? 
  • How will this study or intern abroad program and the coursework you take abroad impact your academic and future professional goals? 
  • Are there any distinctive components to this program, beyond coursework, that will impact your overall learning experience abroad? (i.e. home-stays, internships, field research, volunteer activities, extra-curricular activities, etc.) 
  • What challenges, if any, did you face in your decision to study or intern abroad? How did you meet these challenges and what impact do you foresee them having on your experience abroad? These could include, but are not limited to, being a parent, being a non-traditional student, having a learning or physical disability, being in a field of study for which it is difficult to incorporate study abroad, etc.
  • Briefly outline your proposed project to promote the Gilman Scholarship and international education. How will this project impact your home university or home community? What are your project goals?  
  • What is your target population and how will your project impact this group?  
  • How will you integrate the impact of your experiences abroad into your project?  
  • What, if any, campus departments, student organizations, and/or community organizations will you collaborate with in promoting the Gilman Scholarship and international education? Have you already made contact with these groups?  
  • Upon completion of your project you will be required to submit a two-page final report summarizing your experience abroad and the impact of your Follow-on project.  

gilman scholarship essay example

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Financial Aid and Scholarships

Important updates.

  • In observance of Presidents' Day, we will be closed on Monday, February 19, 2024 .
  • The 2024-25 FAFSA and CADAA are now open . The priority filing date for both applications has been extended to April 2, 2024 . Visit Apply for Financial Aid for details.
  • The Department of Education has announced they will send information from the 2024-25 FAFSA to schools in mid-March. This will result in a delay in financial aid packaging and offers for the 2024-25 academic year.

Essay Review: Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship

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Event Date Thu, Feb 29, 2024 @ 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Planning to apply to the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship ?  This is an opportunity to get help with your essay.  Drop in anytime between 2pm -5pm to have a campus advisor review you essay. 

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Follow-on Service Project

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Upon completion of their international program, Gilman Scholars complete several alumni requirements. All Gilman Scholars commit to these alumni tasks in the Gilman Program Terms and Conditions contract. Many alumni events and opportunities are exclusive to Gilman Scholars who have completed all alumni requirements.   

RE-ENTRY SURVEY

Within one month of returning from abroad, all Gilman Scholars are required to submit a re-entry survey. This is completed in the alumni section of the Gilman portal .   

FOLLOW-ON SERVICE PROJECT & REPORT

To become an alumnus/a of the Gilman Scholarship, Gilman Scholars are required to carry out the Follow-on Service Project proposed in the application. The goal of the Follow-on Service Project is to increase awareness of study abroad and the Gilman Scholarship among a Gilman Scholar’s home or campus community. Gilman Scholars must complete a report on their Follow-on Service Project activities within 6 months of their return to the U.S.   

The Follow-on Service Project report is available in the alumni section of the Gilman portal. You will be asked to include a summary of your project (maximum 1,000 words) and how you think your project impacted your audience (maximum 500 words). No documents or additional materials are required to be submitted to complete your Follow-on Service Project. Additional questions will collect data on:  

  • Who you collaborated with on your project  
  • How much time you spent on your project
  • Who your target audience was
  • Estimated number of people reached through your project
  • How you promoted your project
  • Challenges to completing your project
  • Any updates to your project
  • Additional value gained from completing your project

Follow-on service project revisions and extensions

The Follow-on Service Project is due 6 months after a Gilman Scholar returns to the U.S. from their program. To request an extension, click on the “Request Extension” option on the Follow-on Service Project tile in the Gilman portal . To complete the request, you will need to propose a new, reasonable deadline for your project and provide a brief explanation of why you require an extension. Your request will be reviewed by the Gilman Program, and you’ll receive an email once your request has been approved or if further follow-up is needed.  

To request a revision to your originally proposed Follow-on Service Project, contact [email protected] and include the reason for your revision and your new plan. Any project revisions should maintain at least the same level of effort and quality of your original proposal. Requests will be reviewed by the Gilman Program for approval.  

In your revision request, briefly summarize your new Follow-on Service Project plan by addressing the following questions in a paragraph:  

  • Briefly outline your revised proposed project to promote the Gilman Scholarship and international education.  
  • What is your target population?  
  • How will you integrate the impact of your experiences abroad into your project? What medium will you use to express your message (presentation, flyer, social media, etc.)?  
  • What, if any, campus departments, student organizations, and/or community organizations will you collaborate with in promoting the Gilman Scholarship and international education? Have you already contacted these groups?  

Given the impact of the pandemic on students’ ability to participate in their first-choice program or complete a Follow-on Service Project in-person, Gilman Scholars can revise the project so that it aligns better with their completed program and/or takes place entirely virtually. The goal of the follow-on service project (to increase awareness of study abroad and the Gilman Scholarship among a Gilman Scholar’s home or campus community) remai ns the same for in-person or virtual programs. Successful projects from virtual program participants have included blogging about the experience, writing an article for a local newspaper, program, or university, mentoring or advising prospective students on how to find a virtual program or essay writing support, or presenting at a high school or college classroom about the Gilman Scholarship. For more examples, visit this page .    

FOLLOW-ON SERVICE PROJECT RESOURCES

Gilman Scholars have proposed and carried out a wide range of Follow-on Service Projects. As long as the goals of the Follow-on Service Project are met, there are no right or wrong projects. However, we encourage all Gilman Scholars to highlight their individual background, experiences, talents, and skills in the Follow-on Service Project. For a list previous project examples, visit this page . This is by no means an exhaustive list and we look forward to continuing to review unique, individual proposals from all Gilman Scholars.  

Gilman Scholars are welcome to use Gilman outreach materials during the Follow-on Service Project. When using the Gilman logo online or in presentations, be sure to follow the Gilman Program’s Logo Usage Guidelines . Links to outreach materials are included below:  

  • Gilman one-pagers in English and Spanish  
  • Gilman McCain one-pagers in English and Spanish  
  • Gilman poster  
  • Gilman outreach presentation slide deck in English and Spanish . Alumni are encouraged to customize this to your experience!  

You’ll be representing the Gilman Program while completing your Follow-on Service Project. Reference the Gilman P rogram Fact Sheet for a quick reference sheet about Gilman with important information for prospective applicants, including eligibility, award amounts, benefits of the program, and an overview of the application process.   

Not sure how to get started? Check out our Top 10 Tips for Completing the Follow-on Service Project .   

It can be difficult to describe your entire international experience for an audience at home. The Gilman Program has developed tips for creating your “elevator speech,” or a quick pitch of highlights from your time abroad. For more information, check out this worksheet . Additional resources on communicating and expanding the value of your Gilman experience can be found here .  

For more information, review the Follow-on Service Project Frequently Asked Questions .   

SUBMITTING PHOTOS FROM ABROAD

Gilman Scholars and Alumni are encouraged to send photos highlighting their experience abroad to [email protected] using the guidelines below. The Gilman Program uses photos of Gilman Scholars to feature on our website, social media, and in promotional materials such as brochures, posters, and advertisements.  

  • Photo Submission Guidelines

For questions about submitting photos, contact [email protected] .   

Hear from three Gilman Alumni Ambassadors about how they successfully requested project extensions and revisions, as well as ideas on how to complete an effective project while practicing social distancing.   

gilman scholarship essay example

Contact Information: Applicants & Current Recipients Scholars Abroad & Alumni Advisors General Inquiries

gilman scholarship essay example

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by the Institute of International Education (IIE).

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IMAGES

  1. Gilman Scholarship Info

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  2. 16 Scholarship Essay Examples to Help you Win Scholarship

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  3. 💋 Scholarship essay format examples. Scholarship Essay Examples That

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  5. How to write sucessful Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship Essays

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  6. Gilman Scholarship Info

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COMMENTS

  1. Essays

    The Statement of Purpose essay is an important factor in the selection of Gilman Scholarship recipients. We strongly encourage you to read the Gilman Selection Criteria, carefully review your essay, and ask an advisor, faculty member, or others to proofread your essay for spelling, grammar, and content prior to submission.. In your essay, be specific in describing your individual reasons for ...

  2. PDF "Statement of Purpose" Essay Tips

    GILMAN Scholarship Application "Statement of Purpose" Essay Tips . Fall 2019 . Keys to a strong application essay: ... the theme of the essay that ties it all together. Examples of themes could be a particular interest, a career aspiration, a personal experience from the past, a personal trait, a lesson taught to you by ...

  3. PDF Advisor Best Practices: Essays pt 1

    Gilman-McCain Scholarship Eligibility. $5,000 for child or spousal dependents of active or activated military personnel. U.S. citizen. Undergraduate student. Credit-bearing program. In a Travel Advisory level 1 or 2 country, or level 3 approved exception. No minimum length requirement! Recipient of any type of Title IV federal financial aid.

  4. 8 Tips for Making Your Gilman Scholarship Essays Stronger

    Learn how to make your Gilman Scholarship essays stronger with 8 tips from a recipient who shares her personal story, research, service project and more. The web page also provides a video of her experience as a Gilman Scholar in Prague, Czech Republic.

  5. PDF Steps to Applying for A Gilman Scholarship

    Step 2: Write! Begin crafting your Statement of Purpose and Community Impact essays following the tips below. Statement of Purpose A successful essay should: Mention any ways in which you personally fit into the mission of the Gilman Scholarship (see checklist on the other side). Clearly articulate how you plan to take advantage of specific ...

  6. PDF Writing the Essay

    Sample Projects Gilman Scholars have proposed projects in K-12 Outreach, Academic Department Outreach, Campus Office Outreach, Study Abroad Outreach and Other. Examples of these projects include: •Participating in your local high school College Night to share information on study abroad opportunities and scholarships.

  7. PDF Gilman Study Abroad Scholarship Essays Tips and Guidlines

    GILMAN STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS TIPS AND GUIDLINES. 1. Statement of Purpose Essay. 2. Building Mutual Understanding. 3. Community Impact Essay. • veterans* The Gilman McCain Scholarship- for dependent child of active duty military members at time of application in Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard, and recipient of ...

  8. PDF Statement of Purpose Essay

    Statement of Purpose Essay • Do you make a connection between your program and goals? • Do you make a connection between your country and your goals? • Do you share how you will be academically successful on your program? • Do you give examples of your experiences, skills, and knowledge that you will use to meet program challenges?

  9. PDF Composing Competitive Essays

    Composing Competitive Essays . 2012 . Introduction . Welcome to the Gilman International Scholarship Program's Composing Competitive Essays video. One of the most important components to your Gilman International Scholarship application is completing your essays: the Statement of Purpose essay and the Follow-on Service Project Proposal.

  10. 33 Tips for Applying for the Gilman Scholarship from Past Gilman ...

    Learn from 33 tips from former Gilman recipients who share their experiences and advice on applying for the Gilman Scholarship. Find out how they chose their study abroad locations, what factors influenced their decisions, and what challenges they faced.

  11. PDF Tips for Applying for A Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship

    ESSAYS . Write clearly and concisely; follow the essay guidelines closely. Gilman program reviewers read hundreds of applications and writing an excellent essay that addresses each of the bullet points can make the difference between receiving and not receiving an award. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE ESSAY: • Address each of the six points

  12. International Benjamin Gilman Scholarship Essay Tips

    I was one of the Benjamin Gilman Scholarship recipients because of my essay and now I'm giving all my international tips! These are examples and my story tha...

  13. Gilman Scholarship

    UF Study Abroad Services also hosts a semesterly Scholarship Writing Workshop, during which former Gilman recipients, as well as UFIC staff, are available to review your essays and provide advice. Sample copies of both good and bad essays, as well as a "Guide to Good Essays for the Gilman", are available.

  14. PDF "Statement of Purpose" Essay Tips

    GILMAN Scholarship Application "Statement of Purpose" Essay Tips Fall 2020 Keys to a strong application essay: ... the theme of the essay that ties it all together. Examples of themes could be a particular interest, a career aspiration, a personal experience from the past, a personal trait, a lesson taught to you by ...

  15. Gilman Scholarship

    Avoid cliches: examples are "broaden horizons", "out of my comfort zone", "chance of a lifetime". Writing style should be somewhat formal. Choose words and sentence structure accordingly. Seek support from the Writing Center! Repetitiveness: Be careful about being repetitive across the essays. Learn more about Gilman application essays.

  16. PDF Building Mutual Understanding Essay

    Building Mutual Understanding Essay • Do you articulate how you will represent the United States as a citizen diplomat while abroad? • Do you explain how you will contribute to the goal of building mutual understanding? • Do you discuss how you will look for opportunities to build meaningful relationships and become more culturally engaged?

  17. Annie Eats In Korea: Gilman Scholarship

    Learn how to write a statement of purpose essay for the Gilman Scholarship application, a program that supports academic study abroad for undergraduates. See sample essays from a first-generation Chinese-American student who chose to study economics and psychology in Seoul, South Korea.

  18. Essay Review: Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship

    Essay Review: Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Event Date. Thu, Feb 29, 2024 @ 2:00pm - 5:00pm. Location. UC Davis International Center, 3rd Floor Conference Room (Room 3119) Planning to apply to the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship? This is an opportunity to get help with your essay. Drop in anytime between 2pm -5pm to have a campus advisor review ...

  19. 14 Scholarship Essay Examples That Won Thousands 2023

    Scholarship Essay Example #12. Prompt: Discuss in your essay any challenges or obstacles you have dealt with and overcome in life and how this will help you succeed in college and beyond. Describe how volunteer, community service or extra-curricular activities have shaped who you are today and what it has taught you.

  20. Gilman Scholarship Program

    December 8, 2022. December 8, 2022 - The U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program awarded nearly 1,500 outstanding and diverse U.S. undergraduate students with scholarships to participate in study abroad programs in more than 80 countries worldwide. The recipients….

  21. Gilman Scholarship Sample

    Gilman Scholarship Sample. Improved Essays. 1282 Words. 5 Pages. Open Document. Essay Sample Check Writing Quality. Check Writing Quality. Ever since I was young, I have desired to travel overseas and learn about other cultures. While growing up, my family was always moving due to my father's job.

  22. Gilman Scholarship Program on Instagram: "The Statement of Purpose

    133 likes, 0 comments - gilmanscholarship on February 13, 2024: "The Statement of Purpose essay is your opportunity to describe your reasons for studying abroad, ..." Gilman Scholarship Program on Instagram: "The Statement of Purpose essay is your opportunity to describe your reasons for studying abroad, as they align with your academic and ...

  23. Selection Criteria

    Selection Criteria. The U.S. Department of State's goal for the Gilman Program is to broaden the student population that studies and interns abroad by supporting American undergraduate students who might otherwise not participate due to financial constraints. The international experiences gained through participation in the program enable ...

  24. Follow-on Service Project

    The Follow-on Service Project is due 6 months after a Gilman Scholar returns to the U.S. from their program. To request an extension, click on the "Request Extension" option on the Follow-on Service Project tile in the Gilman portal.To complete the request, you will need to propose a new, reasonable deadline for your project and provide a brief explanation of why you require an extension.