UMSN sophomore wins prestigious Gilman scholarship
May finds University of Michigan School of Nursing (UMSN) students scattering near and far. One student, Michelle Tuyo, leaves for Uganda immediately after finishing her second year at the University of Michigan School of Nursing.
Tuyo won a prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, supported by the U.S. Department of State and administered by the Institute for International Education (IIE), which provides funding for her entire experience, making it possible for her to go without taking out additional loans.
She is traveling on a study abroad program through the University of Michigan’s Global Intercultural Experience for Undergraduates (GIEU). Tuyo will participate in a course called Displacement and Rehabilitation in Uganda, and will be based in a village outside of Kampala, Uganda.
Tuyo joins 11 other students from the university on her four-week trip. While in country, they will stay in homestays with Ugandan families and volunteer at an orphanage. Some children at the orphanage are disabled, while others have suffered displacement and dislocation from family because of various reasons.
As a student in the health care field, she is excited that she may have the opportunity to observe at a village health clinic.
Tuyo has been preparing for her summer experience all semester. As a GIEU participant, she completed a two-credit course and a retreat to explore cultural
differences and awareness of her of cultural position. The retreat and assignments during the semester helped her learn about Ugandan history, politics, and culture.
She is most looking forward to exploring a very different country and culture, in addition to working with kids.
Tuyo has never before travelled internationally. Gilman scholarships are available to students who receive need-based Federal Pell Grants with the goal of making study abroad or international internships more accessible to a wider range of students.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity,” she said. “People are worried about me, but I’m not. My father is excited for me, but nervous also.”
As a part of her obligation to the IIE, she will present information about the Gilman award and her experience in Uganda to the UMSN community in the fall.
