(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - San Diego State senior Ashley Berry was always determined to study abroad despite facing financial hardship.

"Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine," Berry said, "and I knew one day I'd make it happen for myself."

When it came time to start planning her trip, Berry knew she would need some help to fund her dream. She applied for the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship and was one of four SDSU students (out of 900 recipients) to receive the scholarship. Now Berry plans to use her award to study in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Gilman scholarship
The Gilman scholarship provides awards of up to $5,000 for U.S. undergraduate students to study abroad for up to one academic year. It serves students who are receiving a Federal Pell Grant at the time of the application or at the time of study abroad.

SDSU ranks high in the nation for students studying abroad as part of their college experience. Berry did not want to miss out on this experience; receiving the scholarship meant a lot to her, as she will now be in far less debt and does not have to worry about taking out loans.

She plans to take advantage of this opportunity to immerse herself in Uruguay's rich culture, and will take courses with Uruguayans and live with a host family.

"I'm looking forward to exploring the unknown, learning the language, trying new food, meeting new people and experiencing a different way of living."

SDSU junior Eduardo Santacruz, another Gilman scholarship recipient, will study Spanish literature at the University of Barcelona during the spring 2010 semester. He looks forward to learning more about a different part of the world, as well as himself, as he goes out on his own and develops his independence.

Santacruz echoed Berry's sentiment about being relieved of some financial pressure, allowing him to enjoy the experience of exploring a culture so different than his own.

"I feel honored and excited about this opportunity," said Santacruz. "Not many students get the chance to study abroad, and I am relieved that I received this scholarship because all the hard work I put into it paid off."

Worth the effort
Both Berry and Santacruz made it clear that it took some time and effort to complete the application process. However, it was a small task compared to the payoff they received and the new adventure they are about to embark on. 

Berry offered the following advice for students: "Don't let it intimidate you. It looks overwhelming at first, but once you get moving, it goes smoothly. In the end, it was more than worth it."

Seeking help
Students can find out about the Gilman scholarship, and other prestigious national scholarships, at SDSU's Office of Academic Scholarships (OAS). OAS serves as a resource to help students identify and apply for scholarships for which they might qualify.

"These scholarships open doors for students," said Patti Scott, director of OAS. "They often think they can't compete at the national level, but they would be surprised at how qualified they really are."

The application deadline for the next round is April 6, for programs during the fall semester, or academic year 2010-2011. For info, full eligibility criteria and the online application, go to www.iie.org/programs/gilman

Students interested in the Gilman scholarship can attend a free workshop on Feb. 25 to receive more information about the scholarship and application process. The workshop takes place at 4:30pm at SDSU's Int’l Student Center.

Written by Golda Akhgarnia