Two students from the University of Southern Indiana’s Romain College of Business have been awarded the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, a nationally competitive program designed to support U.S. undergraduate students with financial need in pursuing study abroad or international internship experiences.
Natalia Duron and Ivy Ke, both juniors majoring in economics, were selected as recipients of the scholarship and will be participating in study abroad programs this summer.
The Gilman Scholarship provides up to $5,000 in funding and includes additional financial support for students studying critical need languages or engaging in STEM-related programs abroad. Applicants are evaluated comprehensively, with consideration given to academic preparedness, the impact of the program on the student’s academic and career trajectory, and the potential for community engagement during and after the program. USI’s Center for International Programs supports applicants with workshops and feedback to help them submit competitive applications.
Duron, from Huntingburg, Indiana, expressed her gratitude and excitement at receiving the award, describing it as a significant recognition of her academic commitment.
“This scholarship is a strong acknowledgment of my hard work and dedication to my studies,” said Duron. “It not only eases the financial burden of studying abroad but also increases my anticipation for the experience.”
This summer, Duron will participate in the “From the USI Castle to Corporations: Western European Business Study” program, led by Dr. Nicholas Rhew, Chair of the Management and Information Sciences Department and Associate Professor of Management. She has received $2,500 from the Gilman Scholarship.
The program enables students to explore international business in Germany, the Netherlands, and France, focusing on how institutional forces and cultural differences influence business practices and company performance. USI students will study alongside peers from Europe and around the world, with many courses held in Osnabrück, Germany.
“This opportunity allows me to connect with like-minded peers. I’m excited to meet them and hope to build lasting friendships,” Duron said. “By the end of the program, I hope to have a deeper understanding of myself.”
Ke, from Mount Carmel, Illinois, also expressed deep appreciation for receiving the Gilman Scholarship. She was awarded the full $5,000 scholarship along with a $1,000 Critical Need Language Award. Having long aspired to study abroad, Ke noted that financial concerns had been a significant barrier.
“While I’ve always been excited about studying abroad, I was very worried about how I could afford it,” Ke said. “This scholarship allows me to embrace this opportunity without being constantly burdened by financial concerns.”
Ke will attend a summer program in Shanghai, China, through CIEE’s study abroad initiative. Participants will study on the campus of East China Normal University and experience life in one of the fastest-developing cities in the world. Students will gain real international experience and develop valuable professional skills. Having spent part of her childhood in China, Ke said returning this summer will be a meaningful and personal journey.
“I’m most looking forward to reconnecting with my cultural roots, improving my Mandarin, and learning more about China’s modern history,” Ke said. “I chose this program because it combines cultural immersion with academic coursework, helping me better understand the country’s development and its global role—directly related to my interest in international business.”
Both Ke and Duron believe their academic experience at the Romain College of Business has prepared them well for studying abroad. They are eager to share the knowledge gained in their USI classrooms with students from across the globe.
“My education at Romain College has provided a strong foundation in global markets, economic systems, and business communication,” Ke said. “Courses like international economics have helped me gain a broader perspective and boosted my confidence to step into unfamiliar environments.”
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