Kamaria Gragston, Spring 2025 Gilman Scholarship Recipient

Tell us about yourself and your study abroad experience (program, location, etc.).

I’m a first-generation college student from Cincinnati, Ohio, currently attending Marquette
University. I am part of the Urban Scholars Program, Honors Program, and Alpha Kappa
Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. I’m majoring in Criminology with a pre-law focus and
minoring in Social Welfare and Justice. This spring, I’ll be studying abroad in Cape Town,
South Africa, which resonates deeply with my personal and academic goals. I am
excited to immerse myself in South Africa’s culture and history, engage in meaningful
service, and explore how this experience will shape my journey toward becoming an
attorney.

 

 

How is the Gilman Scholarship assisting you in your study abroad goals?

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity, but the financial aspect can be a significant
barrier. For a long time, I worried that the cost might stand in the way of pursuing this
dream. The Gilman Scholarship has lifted that burden, allowing me to concentrate on
developing academically, culturally, and personally. By reducing financial challenges, the
scholarship has made this experience possible and transformed my study abroad goals
into reality.

What would be your advice to other students thinking of studying abroad or applying to the Gilman?

My biggest piece of advice is to go for it, aim high, and take that leap of faith. I
discovered the Gilman Scholarship later in my planning process, but that didn’t stop me
from completing the application and being awarded the scholarship. If you’re passionate
about studying abroad, don’t let obstacles discourage you. There are resources,
programs, and people who want to help you succeed. Applying for the Gilman
Scholarship not only provides financial support but also connects you to a larger
community of resources like counseling, pre-departure sessions, and an incredible
network of alumni who are eager to share their experiences. It’s truly a supportive
community that sets you up for success.

What recommendations/resources would you encourage students to look into to prepare for the Gilman application process?

Start early! Give yourself plenty of time to craft your application, seek feedback, and
revise as needed. For the essay portion, make it personal and share your story and bring
your unique experiences to life. Be intentional about answering the prompts directly
while showcasing your passions and accomplishments. Also, don’t hesitate to use the
resources available to you, whether it’s campus advisors, writing centers, or past Gilman
recipients. Their insights can make a big difference in creating a compelling application.

What is one thing you are looking forward to the most on your upcoming study abroad experience?

I am most excited to connect with the people of South Africa and immerse myself in their
culture. I’m eager to learn about their history, traditions, and ways of life, which will not
only broaden my perspective but also enhance my career aspirations of becoming an
attorney. Understanding different cultures is important in the legal field because it allows
you to serve varied communities more effectively. I believe stepping out of my comfort
zone and learning from others who have different lived experiences will challenge me to
grow and become a more empathetic, well-rounded individual.