Award

Ceny Walker Undergraduate Scholarship

Major

Cyber Policy and Ethics

Minors

Middle East and Islamic World Studies; Business Administration

Year

Junior

Why did you apply?

“I applied for the Ceny Walker Undergraduate Scholarship to support my study abroad trip to Jordan for summer 2025, where I studied Modern Standard Arabic and Jordanian Arabic together at CIEE Amman.”

Provide a summary of what you did with your scholarship or grant.

“I studied abroad in Amman, Jordan for 2.5 months with CIEE Amman. I took intensive classes weekly, studying Modern Standard Arabic (academic Arabic) and the local Jordanian dialect. I also stayed with a host family during that period, and was able to fully immerse myself into the world of Arabic.

I was able to use my scholarship towards funding the partial cost of the program as well as funding extracurricular activities that my classmates and I undertook when we weren't taking classes. For example, on many weekends my friends and I traveled around Jordan and outside Amman to view historical and biblical sites such as the Dead Sea, the Jordan River, Petra, and Wadi Rum.”

How did this scholarship or grant help you?

“This scholarship made it possible for me to pursue this study abroad program, and greatly enhanced my experience and deepened my immersion. The traveling that I undertook on weekends and days that I was not in the classroom became opportunities for me to practice my Arabic and cultural fluency in the field. These experiences made my time in Jordan extra special and helped deepen my connection with the people I met, the culture, and of course the language as well.”

Do you have any advice for future applicants?

“My advice for future applicants is to apply to every opportunity that you can! Put yourself out there and be an advocate for yourself. If you can make a strong connection between the scholarship and your academic and/or professional goals, you are well on your way! Trust me, it will be worth it.”