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Overcoming the Financial Barrier: Students Share Study Abroad Experiences

University Center for International Education

University Center for International Education | Photo by Christian Peters | The Wright State Guardian


Wright State University (WSU) offers several forms of financial aid to help students study abroad and pursue their dreams. 

How do students afford to study abroad?

To make studying abroad more accessible, Wright State University (WSU) offers many programs that help students afford these opportunities. 

For Pell Grant recipients, the Gilman Scholarship is one of the largest sources of funding available. Recipients of this scholarship can receive up to $8,000. With application cycles throughout the year, this scholarship by the United States Department of State seeks to encourage college students in their journey of becoming cultural ambassadors for the US. 

WSU student Rynn Ragland received the Gilman Scholarship this fall and is currently spending a semester in South Korea. They were reluctant to apply for this scholarship, but by taking that chance they were able to fully fund their experience. 

“The worst that could happen is that you don’t get chosen, but the best that could happen is that you get to go abroad and have your own adventure,” Ragland said. 

WSU student Madison Knab used a combination of scholarships, financial aid and personal savings to afford her trip to France. 

“I never thought I would study abroad, but with the support of my professors, peers, advisors and family I was able to overcome my financial concerns and anxiety so I could just go for it,” Knab said. 

The University Center for International Education (UCIE) has advisors available to students to ensure that they choose an experience that makes sense for their professional goals and budget. 

Advisors are available to work individually with students to analyze their financial aid packages, determine which scholarships students are eligible for and any other challenges along the way. 

Benefits of studying abroad

Studying abroad allows students to gain international experience and broaden their horizons. Having international experience can also enhance resumes and marketability upon graduation. 

Ragland credits studying abroad as essential to their professional development by allowing them to learn multiple languages and experience cultural immersion. They are currently in Yeosu, South Korea but have also studied abroad in Xi’an, China. 

“Being abroad on my own made me learn very quickly how to do things independently. In addition, my future career as a translator will benefit from the fact that I am learning several languages,” Ragland said. 

WSU graduate student Jesse Liu completed his Bachelors in Computer Science in 2019 and is currently pursuing his Masters in Business Administration. As an undergraduate, Liu studied in China in order to enhance his understanding of the Chinese language and culture but ended up making life-long friendships as well. 

“The year after my study abroad, one of the students I met there ended up coming to WSU for a semester,” Liu said. 

Knab believes that studying abroad promotes diversity and cultural immersion. While in France, Knab was able to interact with locals and witness cultural wonders like the Arc de Triomphe and Luxembourg Palace.

“Having study abroad experience shows that you’re willing to work with diverse groups and have a desire to continue learning more,” Knab said.

 Students interested in studying abroad should reach out to UCIE by clicking here or emailing studyabroad@wright.edu to schedule an appointment with a Coordinator.


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