Center for International Programs

A Study Abroad team member recently received a commendation from the U.S. Department of State for her work on applicant review for a prestigious scholarship program. 

Associate Director Abi Cavazos just completed her second stint as an applicant reviewer for the State Department’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, which offers Pell-eligible undergraduates the funding to study or intern abroad. 

Since the College started participating with the program in 2011, 48 Siena students have received more than $160,000 in Gilman scholarships to expand their horizons by studying overseas. Each year, Cavazos works with students on their applications and essays for the competitive scholarship; only 20-25 percent of the thousands who apply nationwide are selected in the two funding cycles held each year.

This fall, Cavazos carefully read 55 applications and shared her recommendations with the program’s administration.

“It was an honor to serve on a Gilman panel on behalf of Siena, and to help make study abroad more affordable and accessible for students from around the country,” said Cavazos. “Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, and this scholarship program helps make the opportunity more equitable.”

The State Department reached out to Siena President Chris Gibson, Ph.D. to thank the College for Cavazos’ volunteer efforts. 

“Gilman Scholars share American culture and values while abroad, and learn the languages and cultures of their host nations to bring back to campuses and communities across the United States,” their letter read. “We appreciate your continued support of the Gilman program and of diversifying and expanding study abroad and international internship opportunities.”

Amal Faheem ’23 traveled to South Korea this past summer.

“Studying abroad exposed me not only to a unique culture, but helped me learn more about myself,” she said. “Without the Gilman Scholarship, my dream of studying abroad would have been impossible.”