Linfield University student Salma Galvan was named a recipient of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, to study abroad during the 2021-22 academic year. Galvan is a sophomore from McMinnville, who is majoring in Spanish and anthropology. She will use her award to study in Quito, Ecuador this fall.
“I chose Quito because Ecuador is one of the richest countries when it comes to biodiversity, cultural variety and preserved indigenous traditions,” Galvan said. “There are so many opportunities for growth in both my anthropology and Spanish major.”
While in Quito, Galvan looks forward to being immersed in the culture and connecting with the local people.
“I hope to live in Ecuador as authentically as I can, not to be a tourist but rather a part of the community,” she said. The full immersion program includes classes taught entirely in Spanish and living with a local host family.
Previously, Galvan studied in Belgium, an experience that taught her the value of learning about a new culture and motivated her to study abroad once again.
The Gilman Program, funded by the U.S. Department of State, provides undergraduate students with the chance to learn skills critical to the future of national security and economic prosperity. Since 2001, the program has sent students from over 1,300 U.S. institutions to study or intern in 151 different countries. Gilman Scholars receive up to $5,000 to apply toward their study abroad or internship program costs.
If unable to study in Quito due to disruption from the pandemic, the Gilman Program has committed to help students identify alternative program options, including deferring their award or by supporting participation in a virtual study abroad or international internship program.
After her graduation from Linfield, Galvan hopes to join the Peace Corps as an English teacher and eventually dreams of living abroad working as a foreign service officer.
“Receiving the Gilman is huge in helping me achieve my plans to work in foreign service or with other governmental institutions,” she said. “It’s incredible to be receiving support to travel and study something I truly love.”
For more information about the Gilman International Scholarship Program and how to apply, contact Linfield’s International Programs Office at ipo@linfield.edu.
