Three Austin Community College District (ACC) students prepare to take their education overseas, thanks to the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. The scholarship, awarded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, supports Pell Grant recipients pursuing study or internship opportunities abroad. 

This spring, Jordan A., Maricarmen G., and Lucas B. were selected from more than 17,000 applicants nationwide. They join a growing number of ACC students who are taking their learning across borders. Since 2023, eight ACC students have earned the Gilman Scholarship. The program is designed to prepare students to thrive in the global economy and contribute to U.S. national interests.

For Maricarmen, a Psychology major transferring to St. Edward’s University this fall, the scholarship made what once felt like a dream into reality. She received a $2,000 scholarship to study abroad this summer.

“It honestly felt like a dream! Since it’s such a competitive scholarship, I wasn’t too sure what would end up happening. I was so anxious when I received my decision notification, but when I did, I felt so proud of myself.”

She’ll travel to Romania as part of ACC’s Social Psychology program, where she’ll also work with a nonprofit youth organization.

“I’m hoping to broaden my understanding of psychology in the real world and understand how deeply culture affects the way mental health is viewed. I’m also hoping to make a positive impact.”

The Gilman Program aims to expand access to global learning, with 55% of recipients identifying as first-generation college students, like Maricarmen.

“This scholarship made studying abroad a real opportunity. It’ll help me gain a more well-rounded understanding of psychology in a new environment and test my knowledge. I almost talked myself out of applying because of all the competition, but it would’ve been my biggest regret. I’m starting to learn that the more you put yourself out there, the more you grow.”

Looking ahead, Maricarmen will continue working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), earn her bachelor’s degree, and eventually go to graduate school.

For more information about ACC’s Study Abroad program, visit austincc.edu/studyabroad.