Four University of Arkansas undergraduates have been awarded Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships to fund education abroad opportunities in the spring 2017 semester. The Gilman scholars will receive up to $5,000 to apply towards their study or internship abroad costs.

The scholarship program, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, is intended to increase international experiences for American students, so they will be better prepared to thrive in the increasingly global economy.

Holly Hamblen, a U of A Gilman scholarship winner, said she is grateful to have earned the scholarship and is thankful for the support she received during the application process.

"I feel so blessed and thankful to be honored with this award," she said. "I was fortunate to have a lot of help and support from my family, friends and adviser, Angela LaPorte."

Gilman International Scholarship Recepients

• Cassidy Dutton, international studies major, studying Arabic in Morocco
• Brett Glenn, mechanical engineering major, studying engineering in Italy
• Holly Hamblen, art education major, interning as a student teacher in Sweden
• Breanna Jones, chemistry major, studying on exchange in the United Kingdom

The number of University of Arkansas students making study abroad part of their curriculum continues to grow. During the 2015-16 academic year, a record number of students participated in study abroad opportunities. More than 1,000 students went abroad, visiting nearly 50 countries.

Students interested in more information about applying for the Gilman Scholarship should contact the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange. Undergraduate students with limited financial means who plan to study abroad are encouraged to apply.