In the summer of 2011, I was able to participate in a faculty-led study abroad tour in the Middle East. I travelled to Israel, Egypt, and Jordan to primarily study religion, but also learned about nutrition in the Middle East. This trip has been a highlight of my life, with many memories, new friends, knowledge gained, and an immense appreciation for diversity and other cultures. This trip was made possible by a study abroad grant I was awarded from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources through their Beyond the Classroom Study Abroad Grant. This grant paid for nearly 25% of the cost of travel and the tuition associated with the course.
The Beyond the Classroom Study Abroad Grant offers financial assistance to many students each year. Students must be participating in college/university sponsored study abroad programs, faculty-led study abroad tours, or international independent study programs. Unfortunately, the program does not support individual student travel to attend conferences or meetings. The grant attempts to encourage students with limited experience travelling outside of the country to apply. The amounts awarded to students varies from $500 to $1250. Students fill out an application and submit it to the Dean’s Office. The grants are competitive and submission of an application does not guarantee funding. If a student is awarded a grant, he or she must write a short report and send it to Dean Frank Galey along with a brief letter of thanks. This is a small obligation for the financial support that is provided by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Though the deadline for submitting an application for this year has already passed, I strongly encourage any and all students interested in studying abroad that have a major in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources apply for this grant. I was surprised at how much I was awarded. I thought that since my trip was in the Religious Studies department that I would not receive financial support. I am glad I applied for this grant as it made my study abroad experience possible. Everyone considering studying abroad should look into this grant. It could change your life.
For additional information please contact Anne Leonard at aleonard@uwyo.edu or 307-766-4134.
– Richard Tennant