Andrew Kelleher of New Albin is one of 10 Iowa natives awarded Gilman Scholarship to study abroad

Andrew Kelleher of New Albin is one of 10 students from the University of Iowa (UI) - all hailing from hometowns in Iowa - who have been granted a prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, which awards the recipient up to $5,000 to study abroad.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, these experiences offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, languages, and economies, fostering a deeper understanding of the world, and better equipping them with skills to excel in leadership positions within both government and the private sector.

“These Gilman recipients are incredible individuals who will study abroad in varied and unique locations,” said Teresa Kout, participant services coordinator in UI International Programs. “One of the most satisfying aspects of my position is to interact with students who are applying for the Gilman Scholarship.”

Kelleher is a fourth-year political science major. He will study abroad this summer in Spain on the Iowa Hispanic Institute program.

“I studied Spanish in high school and at the university, and an immersion experience will take my language skills to the next level while also allowing me to experience some of the culture I’ve been learning about for years.

I hope to become a foreign service officer (diplomat), and my study abroad will help prepare me for that career. In Spain, I will be able to interact with a new culture, and I will have to navigate a country where I may not always understand the language. Both of those skills will be invaluable for a diplomatic career.”

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally-oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research.