Gilman Scholar Profiles - Amy Wilson

Egypt Spring Semester 2004 New York State University of New York, Potsdam Field of Study: Archaeological Studies & Anthropology

I am a double major in Archaeological Studies and Anthropology with a minor in Museum Studies at SUNY Potsdam. My specific area of interest has always been Egyptology, and sadly Potsdam does not offer any courses in that particular subject-area. Studying abroad at the American University in Cairo gave me not only the opportunity to study Egyptology, but also to see ancient sites firsthand while at the same time being immersed in contemporary Egyptian culture. In addition, I had the privilege of being taught by leading experts in the field of Egyptology; most notably Dr. Fayza Haikal and Dr. Salima Ikram. I also had the opportunity to meet Dr. Renee Friedman, who delivered a lecture at the American Research Center in Egypt, Cairo. Thus, my semester abroad has been an experience unparalleled with what my home university could ever possibly offer me.

My semester in Cairo confirmed that Egyptology is my primary interest and the field that I wish to study. Next year I hope to enter a graduate program in Egyptology, and ultimately pursue an active career in the very same field.  The Gilman Scholarship is what made it possible for me to study abroad. Without it, I would not have been able to afford the expense of studying abroad.

Read More About Amy's Experience Abroad in Egypt in Glimpse Magazine