Diverse experiences, similar outcomes: Gilman Scholarship opens doors for study abroad

Three students from three colleges had very different study abroad experiences in very different countries. But a year later, all three said those experiences have had a similarly outsize impact on their lives.

Sam Habtemichael, a senior in the Pamplin College of Business, and Terra Famuliner and William Etzler, who both graduated in May, all received Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarships in 2023 and participated in study abroad programs last winter. The U.S. State Department award aims to broaden the student population that studies abroad, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds and those with limited financial means.

As current students apply for the scholarship, which is accepting applications until Sept. 30, these three Gilman Scholars reflected on what they learned during their time abroad and on the impact that a study abroad program can have.  

The full breadth of Virginia Tech’s many study abroad options will be on full display during the Study Abroad Fair organized by the Global Education Office, part of Outreach and International Affairs. The fair, which will be on the Drillfield from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 24, will feature more than 60 booths, financial aid information, giveaways, and more.  

The student experience

Famuliner’s winter study abroad in Panama’s Cocobolo Nature Reserve with program leader John McGee, professor in the College of Natural Resources and Environment, offered a glimpse of her future career.

“To sleep on platforms on the sand and dirt where howler monkeys are calling out around you and bats are flying here and there — it feels a little like the career that many of us want to go into,” said Famuliner, who earned her degree in environmental conservation and society.

Beyond the biodiversity conservation research in the field, Famuliner also got to interact with biology and climate researchers in Panama. Part of the curriculum had her presenting on climate change in front of a U.N. climate specialist. 

She said these interactions with researchers whose work she had studied were intimidating but also inspiring. “I never expected the interactions we had with world-class researchers. It was unbelievable,” Famuliner said. “Speaking with someone who has so much name recognition in my field polished my networking skills."

Being pushed beyond her comfort zone, both professionally and personally, boosted her confidence. “I feel like I’ve proved to myself I can do it. I’ve experienced being a researcher in a rainforest.”

After graduating in May, Famuliner secured a job in environmental planning. She credits her study abroad experience as a key factor. Remembering what she accomplished in Panama infused her with confidence for the interview and describing her experiences abroad helped her articulate her understanding and values.

More of the same, but totally different

While Famuliner was camping in a rainforest, Etzler, then a senior in the College of Science, was having a surprisingly comparable experience in the United Arab Emirates. Despite the contrasting settings — a remote rainforest versus a teeming, modern city — both were networking with climate professionals and gaining hands-on experience in their chosen fields.

At the 28th Conference of Parties to the U.N. Convention on Climate Change, a global assembly of more than 85,000 attendees, Etzler was elbow to elbow with world-leading climate experts and policymakers. He seized opportunities to engage with diverse professionals, from posing questions to a U.S. senator to receiving career advice from prominent researchers.

“It was remarkably fulfilling to talk firsthand with people at the forefront of the movements I had been closely following,” Etzler said.

The experience left a profound impact on him. “After attending my first panel discussion, I knew more than ever before that I was in the right place. I am now so confident that I will be wholeheartedly satisfied with the field of work I am pursuing,” he said.

Since graduating in May, Etzler has continued his research at Virginia Tech’s Earth Observation and Innovation Lab while applying to graduate programs. The memory of his time at Expo City Dubai, where the conference was held, continues to motivate and drive him toward his goals in climate science.

Totally different with just as much impact

While Etzler was immersed in a busy conference schedule, Habtemichael was experiencing tranquility in Costa Rica. As a junior in the Pamplin College of Business, Habtemichael went to Costa Rica not to network or gain experience in a future career. She went to have experiences unlike anything she could get in her degree program and learn from the fresh perspective that provided. 

“During the semester, all the classes I take are very business, analysis, and data oriented. This was my first chance in school to do something that was out of that realm and really get to explore who I am,” she said.

Her research in Costa Rica introduced her to a philosophy of rest, recreation, and authenticity called pura vida, Spanish for "pure life." This concept, along with the program’s overall focus on well-being, inspired and reinvigorated Habtemichael before her senior year.

“I learned to listen to my body when it is telling me that I need a break. The work will always be there, but I need to be putting myself first so that I can be there and be present to even do the work,” Habtemichael said.

She continues to do yoga and to apply the Costa Rican philosophy of rest and authenticity she learned. More than a year later, her Costa Rica experience still helps her manage stress and maintain balance in her life.

It all comes down to this

For Famuliner, Etzler, and Habtemichael, studying abroad and receiving the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship are tentpole events in their education and their careers.

The Gilman Scholarship aims to help young Americans gain the professional skills, language abilities, and knowledge of the world needed for successful careers. All three of these students said their short winter excursions have met and exceeded those goals.

“Just as much as your study abroad opens doors, Gillman also does the same thing,” said Famuliner. “If you feel as though these kinds of things aren’t in your future because of financial strain, there are ways to get that experience and there are people out there that really want to help you go and have this experience.”

The Gilman Scholarship is now accepting applications for undergraduate students looking to study abroad between December 2024 and October 2025. The scholarship application closes Sept. 30.

To learn more about the Gilman Scholarship and other financial assistance available for students looking to go abroad, stop by the Study Abroad Fair on the Drillfield on Sept. 24 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Or contact the Global Education Office at vtabroad@vt.edu.