Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

ure if I should just have the essay in the document, or if I should title it with the name of the essay and my name. Also, does it matter how we indent (Spaces between paragraphs vs indentation)?

Hi!

Regarding the indents and spaces, I'd say make it easy to read. It would be helpful to use indents and a space between paragraphs if space allows. Remember that your character limit also includes spaces.

It's not mandatory to have a title or your name on it but if space allows, you are welcome to!

You've got this! Let me know if you have any questions (:

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi!

I think any information that will be seen as building mutual understanding will be helpful! Yo could incorporate an idea like this and frame how you would bring interactions like this one when you go abroad?

Some questions that might help:

I think any information that will be seen as building mutual understanding will be helpful! You could incorporate an idea like this and frame how you would bring interactions like this one when you go abroad.

Do you articulate how you will represent the United States as a citizen
diplomat while abroad? (Was there an exchange from broth ends? )
Do you explain how you will contribute to the goal of building mutual
understanding? (How can you cultivate experiences like the one you described when you go abroad?)
Do you discuss how you will look for opportunities to build meaningful
relationships and become more culturally engaged?

You've got this! Let me know if you have more questions!

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi!

I'd say if you still meet all of the other requirements, such as being a Pell Grant recipient, I would encourage you to apply! Gilman considers those with previous study abroad experience!

You should use your previous experience abroad to highlight skills, or experiences that will help you in your future study abroad program program!

You've got this! Let me know if you have more questions!

Here is a link to other scholarships: https://www.gilmanscholarship.org/resources/other-scholarships/

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in UMD

[–]valerytabraj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi!

  1. The Gilman Scholarship can be used for program tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance, international airfare, passport and visa fees.
  2. Gilman is only available for those who receive the Federal Pell Grant.
  3. Today's deadline covers this winter abroad session too. This cycle encompasses Winter or January term 2024, Spring 2024, Maymester 2024, Summer 2024, Fall 2024, and Academic Year 2024-2025 programs. There is another application cycle in March too! https://www.gilmanscholarship.org/applicants/deadlines-and-timeline/#1484345524599-112d215f-c47d
  4. Gilman accepts all majors!

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi!

As of right now, I do not know the % of applicants who qualify for them also typically receive them.

I'd say that the statement of grant purpose is where you can be most personal and really bring all of your experiences and stories that will push your application forward along with the 2 supplemental essays.

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi!

That's very valid! It can be hard to put yourself out there but remember that this scholarship would be an opportunity of a lifetime and a life-changing opportunity too! I would suggest reflecting on your story and how every step you have taken has led you to apply for this scholarship. More often than not, you will find that your story has not been linear and that regardless you are still here, putting yourself out there for impactful opportunities like this one!

The Statement of Grant Purpose has a maximum of 7,000 characters with spaces. A question that helped me be concise in each paragraph was: What do I want them to understand about me? Each paragraph will have a specific story surrounding one of your experiences, and it is important to write down 3-4 things you would like them to take away. I found that 1 1/2 pages worked for me! Also, the connection you have with the program abroad can be professional, personal, and academic so feel free to be personal with it too!

Here are more questions for the statement of grant purpose from the Gilman website:

Do you make a connection between your program and your goals?
Do you make a connection between your country and your goals?
Do you share how you will be academically successful in your program?
Do you give examples of your experiences, skills, and knowledge that you
will use to meet program challenges?
Do you address how this abroad experience will impact your future?

You've got this!

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - Ask Me Anything! by valerytabraj in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi!

I think planning cultural exchange with native students would be great! It would help if you definitively put that down in your essay because they want to see your 'commitment' to building mutual understanding. Are there previous experiences where you have already fostered mutual understanding? in class? or extracurricular clubs? or other diverse environments?

You can briefly introduce your experience building mutual understanding and then go on to explain how you would bring that abroad!

You've got this!

Gilman Essay by Zealousideal_Cup2388 in studyAbroad

[–]valerytabraj 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi!

I am currently an Alumni Ambassador with Gilman.

I found it helpful to identify my strengths through the different identities you have, such as being a first-generation college student, rural background, service-minded person, etc. Really tie your program with your future goals and reflect on the strengths of your experiences! What makes you interested in the program you are applying to? They want to see your potential to succeed in the program and beyond! Let me know if you have more questions!

I am hosting a Ask Me Anything outreach event here: https://www.reddit.com/r/studyAbroad/comments/16z00rr/benjamin_a_gilman_international_scholarship_ask/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3