New Paltz students earn competitive Gilman Scholarships for international experiences in 2021

Four SUNY New Paltz students have been awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for study abroad, a highly competitive, federally funded prize awarded by the Institute of International Education to undergraduates for academic studies and internships abroad.

These students received as much as $5,000 to support their international academic experiences during the 2021 school year:

• Halymatou Camara ‘20 (International Relations), who plans to participate in a virtual study program
• Shannon Colfer ‘21 (Theatre Arts), who plans to study in the United Kingdom
• Jomara Gutierrez ‘21 (Marketing), who plans to study in Brazil
• Taylor O’Connor ‘21 (Psychology), who plans to study in Spain

Due to current nature of the field, students will be able to use their awards for international experiences beginning Jan. 1, 2021, through Dec. 31, 2021. Gilman recipients also have the option this year to use their awards to support credit-bearing virtual international programs.

New Paltz has a long and well-established track record helping students secure funding for study abroad and other global experiences. The Center for International Programs has helped students receive roughly $500,000 in Gilman Scholarships alone since 2010.

“Receiving a Gilman Scholarship makes study abroad a reality for students who may not be able to afford the experience otherwise,” said Christian Wilwohl, former study abroad program director.

Students who want to learn more about study abroad, including about available scholarships, are encouraged to contact the Center for International Programs online.