Lizette Becerra, a Linfield College junior from Seattle, Wash., will study abroad in Quito, Ecuador, in the spring after receiving $5,000 from the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.

Becerra, who majors in Latin American Studies with a minor in biology, will study at the Universidad San Francisco De Quito, taking courses on race, ethnicity and the culture of Ecuador.

Becerra will use the experience to boost international education among Latino families, who can be hesitant when their children pursue study abroad programs.

“Latino families are very close and parents want to have their children close to home,” explained Becerra, who is Mexican-American. “Many families are not aware of study abroad opportunities and how beneficial it can be for their students.”

The Gilman scholarship program requires students to design a project to fulfill during their time abroad. For her project, Becerra will post weekly bilingual blog entries reflecting on her experiences, allowing others to follow her travels. Once back in the United States, she will share travel insights with Latino parents through a presentation during the Spanish orientation program at Linfield.

“I want to explain the importance of their support to their student throughout the process of studying abroad,” said Becerra. “I will also share the challenges I overcame before going abroad and while there, along with my insights and life-changing experiences.”

During her time in Ecuador, Becerra will take classes in Spanish and live with a host family close to the college. She is looking forward to experiencing different Latino cultures in Ecuador, as well as getting to know the people there.

“Everything will be so new to me,” said Becerra, who is fluent in Spanish but hopes to increase her vocabulary and learn Castilian Spanish. After graduating from Linfield, she plans to pursue a physician assistant program.

Becerra is among more than 850 American undergraduate students nationwide selected to receive a spring 2017 Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Gilman scholars receive up to $5,000 to apply toward study abroad or internship program costs.