After the University gave a $20,000 grant to the study abroad program, Ashland students can now look to broaden their outlooks on cultures here and overseas.

Provost Frank Pettigrew approved the funding for study abroad, hoping to provide a better experience for Ashland University students.

“Any time we can get a student to get to another culture, it’s a good thing,” Pettigrew said.

The $20,000 grant is just the start of future funds that are expected to increase by $80,000 in the next few years. With a $100,000 grant available, the study abroad program is focused on reaching students that are highly interested in traveling and experiencing a new culture.

Costs of studying abroad will decrease, as the grant will be distributed to students that meet the selection requirements. Rebecca Parillo, the Global Education director at Ashland University, believes this grant will improve costs of the program.

“It can help up to 25% of the costs of the program,” Parillo said.

The grants are available to qualified students on a competitive basis. They are awarded based on both financial need and academic achievements. Students can receive a grant up to $1,000 a person. With this aid, many students are able to afford their journey.

“Sometimes, when you are abroad, you have to sacrifice a trip to another country because of the expenses that you know you [incur],” Amber Bollinger, a former AU study abroad student, said. “This grant could’ve been very beneficial for experiencing more.”

If Bollinger plans on studying abroad again, she will surely enter into the awarding process of a grant. Students must meet several eligibility factors and criteria in order to be awarded a grant. Factors that will be considered include GPA, financial need, an essay of up to 500 words, and two references.

The deadlines of the application vary on which program you choose to study. These dates are listed in the application packet, which is located at the Global Education office on the 7th floor of the library.

Pettigrew believes this new grant will add value to Ashland University. Pettigrew has full confidence that studying abroad will become more popular in the next coming years.

“You’re going to see a shift in study abroad,” Pettigrew said. “It’s a part of what a private institution should provide.”

“The opportunity to travel is expanding on Ashland’s campus, and if students have the desire, an enlightening and life changing experience is at their fingertips.”

“This is only just the start,” he said.