Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide graduate Adam Mouradi had always wanted to study abroad, but he wasn’t sure it was financially feasible.

A Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, however, helped the U.S Air Force reservist realize that dream this summer. The funding Mouradi received allowed him to participate in a study abroad program in the United Kingdom, which fit with his interests in national security and global affairs.  

“Growing up, I honestly did not think higher education would be financially possible for me and scholarships have played a huge role in my education overall,” said Mouradi, who recently completed his bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies. “Receiving the Gilman Scholarship made this study abroad opportunity far more achievable, and it was an honor to be chosen for it.”

Three Embry-Riddle students – Mouradi, Joshua Hendrickson and Saarang Sivakumar – were awarded a highly competitive Gilman Scholarship through a U.S. Department of State program, which provides up to $5,000 to U.S. students looking to study or intern abroad.

“The Gilman Scholarship makes international education accessible to more students,” said Jennifer Schaeffer, director of Embry‑Riddle’s Office of Nationally Competitive Awards and Scholar Development. “Following their time abroad, Gilman Scholars complete a service project that allows them to share their experiences with the Embry-Riddle community and inspire other students to consider studying abroad.”

A participant in the Worldwide-led Cultural Identities & Conflict U.K. study abroad program, Mouradi completed the final classes he needed to graduate while exploring real-world security challenges through site visits and tours. He said one of the most valuable aspects of the program was connecting with classmates from a variety of backgrounds, including fellow veterans and professionals with experience in law enforcement or diplomacy.

“My study abroad experience in the UK was very rewarding,” said Mouradi. “Travel has a unique way of broadening your perspective, and the connections you make with fellow students can be just as impactful as the destinations you visit.”

Hendrickson, a student at the Prescott Campus pursuing a B.S. in Aeronautical Science, said the Gilman Scholarship allowed him to spend a month in Switzerland this summer, taking classes while being immersed in Swiss culture.

Man in front of skyline of Monaco
Joshua Hendrickson, who studied meteorology and physics during a study abroad program in Switzerland this summer, visits Monaco. (Photo: Joshua Hendrickson)

“I learned a tremendous amount on the Swiss Study Abroad 2026 program — from conducting hands-on meteorological research in the Swiss Alps to hearing from industry professionals and touring the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) particle accelerator in Geneva,” said Hendrickson.

Gilman scholar Saarang Sivakumar participated in the Engineering in France program, based in the aerospace hub of Toulouse, France. He took classes and visited companies such as Airbus and Thales Alenia Space, as well as other sites in France, including Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy. He said studying abroad helped him grow both personally and professionally.

Man in front of Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, France
Gilman Scholar Saarang Sivakumar is in front of Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, France. (Photo: Saarang Sivakumar)
“I was able to learn how independent and adaptable I can be,” said Sivakumar, who is studying   Aerospace Engineering at the Daytona Beach Campus. “I also gained a lot more confidence in my own decision-making while navigating unfamiliar places and adapting to a new culture.”

Sivakumar said he was grateful for the award and to the university’s Office of Nationally Competitive Awards and Scholar Development for helping him navigate the Gilman Program’s application process.

“Beyond the critical financial support, I received to study abroad, the Gilman Program has inspired me to build global networks, learn more about international cultures, engage in public service and deepen my professional skills,” he said.