A World of Possibilities: VCU Offers Study Abroad Opportunities, Scholarships

By Mike Porter

Whether it’s learning about fashion in Paris, public relations and journalism in China, cross-cultural research in Ghana or visual arts in the highlands of Peru, Virginia Commonwealth University students have opportunities to study around the world in programs coordinated through the VCU Global Education Office.

There are also several opportunities for scholarships to defray the costs of studying abroad but time is running out for two significant scholarship opportunities.

The 2011-2012 VCU Education Abroad Scholarship Competition is open for students who will be studying abroad during spring break 2011, summer 2011 or during the 2011-2012 academic year (including fall, spring or full-year abroad.)  Applications must be completed and returned by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 18, and are available at the Global Education Office at 817 W. Franklin St. or online at http://www.global.vcu.edu/abroad/students/funding/vcuscholarships.html#1 .

Students also may apply for financial support to study abroad through the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship program. Those interested must notify the VCU Financial Aid Office and VCU Global Education Office of their intent to apply for a Gilman Scholarship and provide three copies of transcripts from VCU and any prior institution indicated on the application. Complete the application online at www.iie.org/gilman. Check the Gilman Scholarship site for a complete list of eligibility requirements and guidelines.

“It is our hope that, with the increased availability of scholarship funding to students through programs such as the Gilman and VCU Education Abroad Scholarships, more VCU students will be able to participate in the wide selection of VCU faculty-led programs this summer," said Stephanie Davenport, director of Education Abroad.

A complete listing of upcoming faculty-led study abroad programs is available at http://www.global.vcu.edu/abroad/programs/vcu/index.aspx.