Hometown: Somerset, NJ

Host Country: Scotland

“Being selected for the Joy Worldwide scholarship means a lot because it doesn't just feel like the scholarship is investing in not only my study abroad experience, but in who I am becoming. I have always been someone who is curious about the world and wants to experience things for myself, and this scholarship gives me the opportunity to do that in a way that I may not have been able to otherwise. It takes away the financial stress of studying abroad and allows me to focus more on actually being present, learning, exploring, and growing from the experience.”

Hometown: Easley, SC

Host Country: France

“Being selected for the Joy Worldwide scholarship means so much to me because it represents more than financial support. It allows me to continue pursuing opportunities that will broaden my understanding of the world and the people in it. I believe that learning about other cultures and communities can make us better prepared to serve others and this scholarship is helping make my upcoming study abroad experience in Montpellier, France possible. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn outside of the classroom and challenge myself in a new environment.”

Hometown: Byram, MS

Host Country: Kenya

“Being selected means I can finally make the difference I want to see. I can return to Alcorn State University and tell my peers that you miss 100% of the shots you do not take, and that I received a very competitive scholarship. To me, this scholarship is like personal ammunition I can use to fuel my unimaginable story of how I came to embark on my journey to study abroad. I will use this opportunity to encourage others to study abroad and apply for Joy Worldwide as well!”

Hometown: Vicksburg, MS

Host country: Thailand

“Being selected for this scholarship means that I am being viewed as having potential to carry the mission of this scholarship program to provide outreach and increase awareness of studying and traveling abroad in African American communities. With receiving this honor, I am further inspired to fulfill my goals of helping more students accomplish the same as I have.”

Hometown: Seattle, WA

Host country: Spain

“Being selected for this scholarship means that there are people out there willing to support students of color - like me - and help them achieve their goals. This scholarship embodies the hope and confidence necessary to dream big, move solo to a new country, and take advantage of opportunities to see where life takes me. Being selected for this scholarship also means that I now have the opportunity to pay this experience forward. I am so excited to learn from studying abroad in Spain and be equipped with skills that will help me make a difference in the representation of people of color in films.”

Hometown: Covington, GA

Host Country: England

“Being selected for this opportunity means a lot to me because it shows that the committee and donors saw potential in me and believed that I would make the most of this experience. It also means having access to an opportunity that I may not have been able to pursue as easily on my own. I see it as more than just financial support. It’s an investment in my education, my personal growth, and the person I’m becoming. It motivates me to step outside of my comfort zone, learn as much as I can, and come back with new perspectives that I can share with others.”

Hometown: Winder, GA

Host country: England

“Being selected for this scholarship means so much to me in my journey during study abroad. This scholarship gives me this opportunity to share my experience not just through me but also through this program, giving me a platform to share that I know will reach people to have the courage to do study abroad. I am so very grateful to be selected into this program, especially as a singer trying to achieve my dreams through my artistry, this opportunity feels once in a lifetime for me and I will be doing everything in my power to use this scholarship and opportunity to share my craft and experiences to others through study abroad and Joy Worldwide.”

Hometown: Pleasanton, CA

Host country: Japan

“Being selected for this incredible opportunity means I can make progress towards developing my career as a Japanese translator and contribute to intercultural learning. I have fond memories of watching anime together with my siblings every week. As a young artist, I was moved by the deep stories and unique visuals. I want to be able to share that feeling of inspiration and connection with others.”