Three University of Virginia students will study overseas as Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholars. The U.S. Department of State’s Gilman Scholarship Program enables Pell Grant recipients to study or intern abroad, in hopes of equipping the next generation of leaders with international perspectives and skills critical to national security and economic prosperity. […]

Autumn Harris appreciates the history that Italy offers and hopes her time there will help her prepare for law school in the future.

“I was drawn to this country and the courses offered through International Studies Institute’s program,” Harris said. […]

She completed her sociology undergraduate degree in three years and was eager study abroad her fourth year. “This opportunity has so much value to my academic career, as it allows me to put the skills I have gained from my major into practice in the real world, but also gives me the ability to set myself apart from my peers by bringing a unique experience and perspective gained through the experience and knowledge from living abroad,” she said. “This is not only an opportunity to challenge me academically, but personally as well.”

A graduate of Peninsula Catholic High School, Harris is a member of the University Programs Council; Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority; Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity; and a Madison House volunteer.

Read the rest of this UVA Today story here.