Coleman Awarded Gilman Scholarship to Study in Taiwan

JONESBORO – An Arkansas State University student will spend her summer in Taiwan, studying Chinese in a two-month intensive program at Chung Yuan Christian University.

Loren Coleman, a freshman history major from Jonesboro, is attending the program as the recipient of the $5,000, Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.

She also received a $3,000 supplemental Critical Need Language Award for studying a language in a location where it is predominantly spoken. 

“When I got the email that the Gilman results were posted and I looked at my account, I was flabbergasted. Reading my acceptance letter, I was overjoyed,” Coleman said.

Coleman, who hopes to work in a museum and has a strong interest in ancient history and archaeology, encourages other students to pursue international opportunities.

“If any other student is wanting to study abroad, I highly recommend applying for scholarships because you might just be surprised. My Gilman application experience was absolutely amazing, and applying was extremely simple,” she said.

Jennifer Salo, coordinator of competitive scholarships and fellowships in the Office of Student Research and Scholarship, helped Coleman secure funding to make her summer abroad possible.

“I’m so proud of Loren. She has big dreams and is excited to learn all she can. Loren arrived at A-State and immediately began seeking out people and resources to help her reach her goals. I was honored to assist her in the Gilman application process and so happy she will get to participate in this life-changing opportunity,” Salo said. 

The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program has awarded scholarships to 1,550 American undergraduate students nationwide. The program received over 7,700 applications, a record high for the fall application cycle, with Coleman being one of the recipients of the award. This group of Gilman Scholars will represent the United States in over 90 countries, participating in study abroad programs and internships worldwide.

For details about applying for nationally competitive awards and opportunities, contact Jennifer Salo at jsalo@AState.edu.