Hometown: Jackson, MS

Host Country: Taiwan

What does being selected mean to you?

“I want to study abroad to expand my perspective on how creativity and innovation shape communities around the world. As a Computer Science major at Spelman College, I discovered coding as another form of creative expression after growing up as a dancer with limited access to computer science. Studying abroad in Taiwan will allow me to explore how different cultures approach technology, design, and innovation, especially in web development and artificial intelligence, while strengthening my commitment to building inclusive, empathetic technology that serves global communities.”

*Flight Voucher Recipient

Hometown: New Orleans

Host country: England

“Being selected by Joy Worldwide means that I have the opportunity to broaden my understanding of criminal justice and political social systems through an international lens. Knowing that Joy Worldwide believes in my potential would motivate me to maximize this experience, engage fully with diverse perspectives, and return prepared to apply globally informed solutions to the communities I serve. I am grateful that I will be able to meet new people, expand my social connections, and my professional network by studying abroad.”

*USAC Scholarship Match Recipient

Hometown: Conyers, Georgia

Host Country: England

What does being selected mean to you?

“Studying Theatre Studies in London will allow me to continue my artistic and academic growth while engaging with theatre as a global community. With over ten years of acting experience and conservatory-style training, this program challenges me to expand my perspective in an unfamiliar cultural environment. This experience will support my long-term goal of educating and mentoring young actors around the world, while also helping me explore London as a potential base for balancing artistic opportunity, education, and long-term stability.”

*Flight Voucher Recipient

Hometown: Queens, New York

Host Country: Netherlands

What does being selected mean to you?

“I want to study abroad in the Netherlands to explore justice systems that prioritize restoration over punishment. Through the IES Law and Criminology program in Amsterdam, I will study a society known for its restorative justice practices, reduced incarceration rates, and rehabilitation-focused models. This experience will deepen my understanding of comparative legal frameworks and inform my future goal of creating policy and nonprofit initiatives that challenge punitive systems and promote human dignity, accountability, and transformation.”

*Flight Voucher Recipient

Hometown: Seattle, WA

Host country: Japan

What does being selected mean to you?

“Being selected affirms the path I am on and the effort behind it. This opportunity allows me to step into an unfamiliar environment and learn through experience, not routine. Spending three months abroad will push me to adapt, listen, and grow in new ways. I look forward to gaining perspective I cannot find at home. I plan to carry those lessons forward, apply them to my goals, and use them to support and uplift my community as I continue shaping my future.”

Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

Host Country: Brazil

What does being selected mean to you?

“As a political science major with minors in economics and Latin American and Caribbean studies, studying abroad in Brazil allows me to examine inequality and systemic oppression in a country with the largest Black population outside of Africa. Through coursework and engagement with Indigenous and Black activists, I hope to build empathy, cultural awareness, and confidence as I prepare for a future working with international organizations.”

*Flight Voucher Recipient

Hometown: San Diego

Host country: Granada University

What does being selected mean to you?

“As a young Black man from a low-income background and a first-generation college student, this award represents opportunity, encouragement, and belief in my potential. Growing up, higher education often felt out of reach, not due to lack of ambition, but because of financial limitations and limited access to guidance. This scholarship removes a significant barrier and allows me to focus fully on my academic and personal development. Being the first in my family to attend college carries both responsibility and pride. I am motivated to succeed not only for myself, but also to set an example for my family and community.”