MSU students named Gilman scholars

Contact: Carl Smith

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Three Mississippi State students are recipients of the highly competitive Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship and will have a portion of their tuition, travel and living expenses covered as they pursue additional educational opportunities abroad this year.

Scholarship recipients include senior computer science major A’mya Hoskins of Senatobia, junior software engineering major Ricky Nguyen of Ocean Springs and senior anthropology major Amanda Whitehead of Pickens.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Gilman Scholarship provides up to $5,000 in merit-based scholarships for undergraduates to study abroad, with the goal of broadening access to global education. Since its inception in 2001, more than 50,000 merit-based scholarships have been awarded to American students participating in study abroad programs and internships across the globe.

“I've seen the Gilman Scholarship transform more than just a student’s finances—it transforms identities,” said MSU Study Abroad Coordinator Dominique Brown, whose office connects students to a wide range of global learning opportunities, including the Gilman Scholarship, as part of the university’s International Institute. “It is a scholarship that empowers students who never thought they would have the chance to study abroad to take a seat at the global table. If you are receiving a Pell Grant and have a dream, then the Gilman Scholarship is your greatest ally.”

More than 70% of Gilman Scholars are chosen from rural communities or small towns, and more than half are first-generation students. MSU recipients will serve as cultural ambassadors, strengthening international understanding and bringing their global perspectives back to the university and their communities.

For more information on MSU Study Abroad and the International Institute, visit www.international.msstate.edu/offices/study-abroad and www.international.msstate.edu.

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