Three University of Illinois students are among the 61 college freshmen and sophomores nationwide awarded expenses-paid opportunities to study in the United Kingdom this summer.
The US-UK Fulbright Commission selected scholars from more than 1,600 applicants for summer academic and cultural programs ranging from three to six weeks for study or research in any field, at nine U.K. institutions. The commission is part of the Fulbright program conceived by Sen. J. William Fulbright in the aftermath of World War II to promote leadership, learning and empathy between nations through educational exchange.
Thomas Dowling, of Chicago, is studying at the University of Exeter on a four-week summer program. Dowling completed his first year at Illinois, pursuing double majors in history and political science. His four-week Fulbright Summer Institute includes a “Fulbright Week,” where students explore with Exeter’s leading academics the issues of climate change through experiential and classroom learning, followed by three weeks of integration with others in Exeter’s International Summer School.
Lisa McGovern, of Western Springs, Illinois, is taking part in a Fulbright Summer Institute experience in Scotland. She completed her second year at Illinois as a history major embarking on secondary education certification, where she is active with the Illinois Education Association and Model United Nations. In Scotland, she is spending five weeks studying at the University of Dundee and the University of Strathclyde, learning about Scotland’s identity, culture and innovation.
David Stage, of Fulton, Illinois, is studying at Durham University. Stage, a history major, completed his sophomore year at Illinois. At Durham, Stage is participating in classes through the Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies and in an archeological project.
“A period of study abroad is a great way to broaden your horizons and make you stand out from the crowd,” said Penny Egan, executive director of the US-UK Fulbright Commission. “This is a wonderful opportunity to get a taste of British higher education, and as part of a high-achieving cohort, this small group of students will gain immensely from the experience.”
Fulbright Summer Programs cover all participant costs. In addition, Fulbright summer participants receive a distinctive support and cultural education program including visa processing, a comprehensive pre-departure orientation, enrichment opportunities in country, a re-entry session and the opportunity to join an alumni network.
