By Celina Sandoval, 713-743-3774
In a bustling corner of the University of Houston, amidst the diverse tapestry of students' aspirations and dreams, exists a beacon guiding ambitious minds toward global excellence—the Institute for Global Engagement (IGE). This past fall, IGE proudly recognized the outstanding achievements of several students who have seized opportunities to expand their horizons on the global stage.
With the support of IGE, these Cougars have earned scholarships and gained experience that will take them around the world for new academic opportunities. These students have earned honors such as the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship and the International Education Scholarship, as well as the designation of Global Citizens Credential. Recently, 14 students were awarded the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. The Gilman Scholarship will provide these students with financial support, enabling them to partake in enriching international experiences, broaden their cultural perspectives, and foster meaningful connections across borders. Thanks to guidance from IGE, students such as Nikita Harris will embark on new academic journeys.
Harris, a statistical communications major, exemplifies the transformative impact of being a Gilman Scholar. IGE played a pivotal role in simplifying the Gilman Scholarship’s application process through the UH Learning Abroad app and providing essential support. This helped ensure that she met the scholarship requirements without feeling overwhelmed.
As a Gilman Scholar, Harris will visit Japan, a trip that has been a significant aspiration for her since enrolling at UH in 2021. Harris anticipates the opportunity to shape her character through unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will not only enhance her academic and professional resume but also contribute to her personal growth. She aims to foster healthy intercultural exchanges by integrating her interests in public policy and the arts.
“I aspire to gain a first-hand experience of cross-cultural exchanges outside of the United States. I am a strong supporter of inclusion and empathetic understanding; I plan to approach global engagement with these values in mind.” Harris said.
In addition to the Gilman Scholarship, UH’s Global Citizens Credential (GCC) supports students’ aspirations for global learning experiences. This fall, the credential was conferred upon six exceptional graduates. GCC recognizes undergraduate students for their commitment to activities that enhance global knowledge and skills. Students who earn the GCC demonstrate not only academic prowess but a profound understanding of global engagement and responsibility. Through the guidance and support of IGE, students emerge as distinguished global citizens, equipped with the core competencies essential to thrive in an interconnected world. The Global Citizen Credential is earned by accumulating points in several areas that include global courses, learning abroad, language proficiency, intercultural activities and global scholarly work. The GCC is open to any UH undergraduate student in good academic standing with a GPA of 2.0 or above.
Wajahat Mohiuddin, a recent Fall 2023 graduate, is an example of the transformative power of the GCC program. Having just earned his bachelor’s degree in World Cultures and Literature, earned his GCC points through academic endeavors and truly embraced the global experiences that came with it.
Mohiuddin’s most valuable experiences came during his learning abroad programs in Jordan and Oman. These experiences opened his eyes to the nuances and cultural differences within the Arab world. His time in Oman highlighted the significance of cultural preservation over modernization—a unique approach that sets Oman apart from its Gulf counterparts.
“I’d like to work in a global organization that has locations overseas or an organization that is based either in the Middle East or in a Gulf Arab country,” he said, “This will allow me to leverage my Global Citizens Credential and my personal experiences, as well as utilize my Arabic skills along with continuing to improve them.” Other global opportunities are made possible by International Education Scholarships that are awarded to deserving students seeking to embark on transformative learning experiences abroad.
This year, 36 International Education Scholarships were awarded. These scholarships provide students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, engage in global initiatives, and conduct research collaborations, enriching their academic journey and contributing to their personal growth.
One student in particular is Jessi Dixon, a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies. Dixon plans to explore Ireland and fully immerse themselves in new studies and experiences.
With a passion for city planning and historic revitalization in rural Texas, Dixon aims to draw lessons from Ireland's efforts to balance tradition with progress.
The success of students like Dixon, Mohiuddin and Harris is made possible by the unwavering support and commitment of the Institute for Global Engagement. Through its initiatives and dedicated efforts, IGE continues to pave the way for students at UH to pursue their aspirations in international education, fostering a community of globally minded individuals equipped to navigate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
“It’s such a privilege to work with our UH students to help them find and support their individual pathways to being globally engaged,” said Michael Pelletier, executive director of UH’s Institute for Global Engagement. “Their global experiences add to their education and make them truly global citizens.”