We are excited to announce and congratulate the recipients of the 2024 Semester at Sea Fall Voyage scholarship! These exceptional NSCS members have earned this esteemed scholarship through the collaborative efforts of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) and Semester at Sea.
This partnership aims to provide deserving students with scholarships for this extraordinary program. Through this collaboration, NSCS supports its members in achieving their academic and personal goals by offering them the chance to participate in a life-changing global educational experience. We are immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to their incredible journey ahead.
What is Semester at Sea?
Semester at Sea is a unique study abroad program that offers students the opportunity to travel the world while earning academic credits. Students live and study on a ship, visiting multiple countries during the voyage. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences in different cultures and environments, making it a transformative educational adventure. Participants engage in coursework, field classes, and service-learning projects, gaining global perspectives and skills that enhance their academic and personal growth.
This year’s recipients are:
- Carleena Deforges, University of South Florida
- Valeria Garcia, University of Tampa
- Nicole Heiter, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
- Nuru Kibare, Kennesaw State University
- Rowan Kile, Michigan State University
- Eiley Smith, Utah Valley University
These six students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and enthusiasm, and we are proud to support them as they embark on this incredible journey. Here are their inspiring testimonials:
Carleena Deforges, University of South Florida
Scholarship Amount: $10,000
“When I first heard about Semester at Sea, I remember thinking it sounded like a Suite Life on Deck pipedream, and I hesitated to take part in the program due to the very daunting program costs. But two years ago, to my parents’ dismay, I said, ‘Why not? I can find the money,’ and have been working towards funding the voyage ever since. I cannot truly express my gratitude or the sense of relief I feel from having received $10,000. I had a dream of funding my travels with only scholarships, and the Semester at Sea Fall Scholarship has brought me so close to my goal. Thank you to the entire National Society of Collegiate Scholars team who made this possible for me!”
Valeria Garcia, University of Tampa
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“Thank you sincerely to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for awarding me this scholarship that will allow me to study abroad on a trip of a lifetime around the world with Semester at Sea. I am excited to immerse myself in 10 different cultures and learn more about who I am and where I fit in this amazing world. I am honored that you believe in me and are investing in my future. This act of generosity will help me become a wellrounded individual by allowing me to put into practice what I learned in school. During my trip, I plan to give back by volunteering and making a positive social impact in every country I visit.”
Nicole Heiter, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“I am so excited and proud to receive this scholarship as it allows me to travel to new places and experience the world in a whole new way. I am eager to embark on this journey of making new memories, lifetime connections, and obtaining a meaningful education. I am so thankful for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for providing me with the opportunity to immerse myself in new cultures and learn more about our beautiful planet.”
Nuru Kibare, Kennesaw State University
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“I am beyond grateful for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for supporting me, believing in me, and providing me with the opportunity to take on this once-in-a-lifetime experience with Semester at Sea. This scholarship has opened doors to invaluable educational and cultural experiences that I otherwise would not be able to access. With this scholarship, I get to embark on a unique educational journey, traveling to multiple countries and experiencing diverse cultures firsthand. This immersive experience will enable me to be adaptable, enhance my global awareness, diversify my knowledge, and foster resilience. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also validates my hard work and dedication to becoming a global citizen. I am incredibly honored to be a recipient of this Scholarship, and I want to express my gratitude and appreciation towards the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for making my dreams a reality.”
Rowan Kile, Michigan State University
Scholarship Amount: $10,000
“I am truly honored to accept this scholarship for Semester at Sea. It is going to help open up a world of opportunities to explore global cultures and create lifelong memories with the friends I meet.”
Eiley Smith, Utah Valley University
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“I am so grateful that the National Society of Collegiate Scholars has provided this scholarship. It has allowed sailing on the Semester at Sea fall 2024 voyage financially possible for me. This scholarship has not only allowed me to reach my financial goals, but also achieve my dreams of seeing the world. I know that Semester at Sea will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am so thankful for this scholarship and the help it has given me.”
These testimonials highlight the transformative power of the Semester at Sea program and the significant impact of the NSCS scholarships. We are incredibly proud of these scholars and excited to see the amazing experiences and growth they will gain through this unique educational voyage. Here’s to new horizons and unforgettable adventures!
