Just as Xavier prepares its students to assume roles of leadership and positive change, so does the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program. The Gilman scholarship aims to educate students to become global leaders through premier study abroad and internship programs. It offers students worldwide experiential learning opportunities that set the highest standards of academic quality. With a variety of aid options, the Gilman scholarship has been instrumental in supporting Xavierites in their academic endeavors and supports the university’s mission of preparing students to be of service to global society. 

The scholarship awards up to $5,000 to support students who dream of studying abroad, granting them opportunities to explore their talents while learning in culturally rich and diverse environments. In 2022, three Xavierites submitted applications, with one receiving the Gilman scholarship. In 2023, six submitted their applications, and five were recipients. The Gilman scholarship has a March and an October application cycle, and the national award ratio is about 24%.  

“I learned about the Gilman scholarship last year to help finance my study abroad dreams. The experience was great. Both sides between Gilman and Xavier have been a major help!” said Gilman recipient Bethani Thomas, a junior sociology major with a minor in chemistry. London Shields, a sophomore and another scholarship recipient, also shared how the Gilman scholarship will impact her academic and personal journey.  

“The Gilam scholarship has made me more confident in obtaining my career goals. This scholarship has proved that I’m headed down the right path,” she said. “From my experience abroad, I hope to gain a better perspective on how I adjust to new situations, immerse myself in classes that give me a better understanding of my major in relation to other countries, gain new experiences, and step outside of my comfort zone.”  

The recipients expressed that receiving the Gilman scholarship has granted them the opportunity to experience places and cultures that they’ve only dreamed of. They collectively shared, “We get to take a breath from everyday life and explore and experience life for what it really has to offer. The scholarship has and will mold our perspectives on culture, education and life forever!”