Lula Lipman ’26 and McKenna Sweet ’26 were selected by the U.S. State Department as Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship honorees. Named in honor of the late New York congressman Benjamin A. Gilman, the scholarship provides financial support for undergraduate students to travel abroad and develop skills related to economic development and national security.

Sweet, a government and educational studies major from South Burlington, Vermont, is studying in England this semester at City St. George’s, University of London. She credits Conn and the scholarship for encouraging her to step out of her comfort range. “Studying in London for a semester will be both the farthest and longest I have ever been from home. Although the adjustment was hard at first, I ultimately realized that the academic skills Conn equipped me with through interdisciplinary and comprehensive class models will allow me to get the most out of this amazing opportunity.”

Through an organization called Reach the World, Sweet will make connections between her work in London this semester and a New London classroom where she worked last semester.

“Reach the World matches students studying or working abroad with a K-12 classroom in the U.S. for a virtual, semester-long, interactive program. I will write articles and journal entries for the students in the partner classroom weekly and will engage in video calls with them over the course of the semester,” Sweet explained.

“While this project is in the early stages, I am confident that the opportunity to work further with students I have a standing relationship with will be meaningful.”

Lipman, a neuroscience and gender, sexuality and intersectionality studies double major from New York, New York, is studying in Copenhagen, Denmark, through a program run by the non-profit study abroad foundation DIS.

“I was attracted to DIS for its emphasis on hands-on learning, such as lab-based courses and field studies, as well as its commitment to teaching global perspectives,” she said.

Lipman credits Director of the Office of Study Away Shirley Parson with helping her refine and perfect her Gilman application.

“My coursework at Conn has provided me with a strong academic foundation, particularly in my majors, which will allow me to engage deeply with my classes [while abroad],” Lipman said.

“Beyond academics, Conn has encouraged me to think critically, adapt to new environments, and approach learning from a socially conscious perspective. Those skills will be invaluable as I navigate my experience abroad.”

Connecticut College offers a wide range of fellowship opportunities for students and recent graduates. For more information, visit The Walter Commons or email fellowships@conncoll.edu.