By: University Communications Intern, Sicilia Reed

T hree Georgia College & State University students have been awarded the Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Scholarship. 

Kassie Arps, a rising junior majoring in mass communication, Paige Blakemore, a rising senior majoring in mass communication and Tommy Creekmore, a rising junior majoring in English, were among 125 students nationwide selected for this award. All of them uitilized the scholarship to participate in GCSU’s Intercultural Leadership Program at the European Parliament.

The program, which is based at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, brings together students and scholars, as well as diplomats, policy-specialists, military officers, elected officials, business executives and non-profit leaders. Program participants complete coursework in global leadership and intercultural communication and visit important international political institutions.

Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Its study abroad grant program distributes $1.3 million each year to outstanding students through graduate and dissertation fellowships, funding for post baccalaureate development and grants for local, national and international literacy initiatives.

To apply for this award, Arps, Blakemore and Creekmore submitted transcripts, letters of recommendation and essays detailing their selected study abroad programs and the impact their programs would have on their future academic and professional careers.

Tommy Creekmore is eager to use his scholarship. 

"I want to understand how leadership is executed across cultures and enable myself to better appreciate the history and culture of the Alsace region,” he said.

Paige Blakemore is excited to share her experience abroad with others. 

“The Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grant will enable me to immerse myself in the beauty of France and its culture,” she said. “This grant not only supports my academic pursuits but will also contribute to fostering a deeper understanding of the world around me.”

Kassie Arps applied what she has learned in her major at GCSU to her studies abroad. 

“I know that understanding different cultures and effectively communicating across cultural boundaries are essential skills in today’s globalized world,” she said.  “This scholarship gives me the opportunity to meet my academic and personal goals, providing me with the necessary tools to become a more effective leader and communicator."

Applicants for the honor society's study abroad scholarship do not need to be a member, but they need a GPA of 3.75 or higher. Students interested in applying for this award should contact National Scholarships Office Coordinator Anna Whiteside.