Madison Hagaman, an English education major at Trine University, is enriching her academic journey and preparing to inspire future students through a transformative study abroad program in Athens, Greece. Her summer experience is made possible in part by the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, a prestigious program backed by the U.S. Department of State.
Hagaman, a native of Quincy, Michigan, received a $3,000 scholarship to help fund her study abroad experience. The Gilman Scholarship Program is designed to support students with limited financial resources in pursuing international education opportunities, including studying and interning abroad.
She becomes the third Trine University student in the past two years to receive this competitive award.
Embracing Global Learning
Madison first learned about the Gilman Scholarship and global study opportunities through Trine’s Director of Study Abroad, Dr. Haseeb Kazi, and fellow students who had previously studied abroad.
“Studying abroad appealed to me because it allows for cultural exploration outside the United States,” she explained. “As a future educator, I’m always eager to learn about different cultures and understand how to better represent them in the classroom.”
With aspirations to integrate cultural awareness into her teaching, Madison saw studying abroad as a unique way to align her educational goals with her life experiences—without falling behind on coursework.
Though she initially self-funded the trip, applying for the Gilman Scholarship was an easy decision. “The process was straightforward,” she said, “but the most challenging part was ensuring my essays truly reflected who I am.” Thanks to support from Trine faculty, she was able to submit a strong application that captured her passion and purpose.
A Cultural Immersion in Greece
During her time abroad, Madison has already explored iconic locations including ancient Corinth, the island of Agistri, and the Acropolis. She is also immersing herself in Greek culture and language, gaining firsthand insight into a lifestyle far removed from her Midwestern roots.
“This experience will broaden my understanding of cultures beyond the U.S.,” she said. “As an educator, I want to bring that global perspective into my future classroom and introduce students to countries and cultures they may never get the chance to experience themselves.”
Madison is grateful for the opportunity and is committed to using what she learns abroad to enrich the lives of her future pupils.
