Winners of the 2017 Generation Study Abroad Video Voices Challenge

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 2, 2017—This summer, we asked study abroad alumni to share how their experiences gave them a competitive edge, and what impact it had on their lives and the world. We received impressive submissions from alumni who studied all over the globe. Congratulations to Zac Wierschem and Shardae White, winners of the 2017 IIE and New York Times in Education Generation Study Abroad Video Contest!

Shardae White

A recipient of the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, Shardae studied in Valparaiso, Chile with IFSA-Butler. Shardae says, “Study abroad is a truly unique experience. I’m excited to be a part of Generation Study Abroad and have the opportunity to share my semester abroad with students who are considering taking that leap. As a Gilman scholar, I’m here to encourage you all to do it, and to let go of any doubts or fears. It’ll be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life!”

Zac Wierschem

A senior innovation & entrepreneurship major at Marquette University, Zac Wierschem says his experience in Athens, Greece helped to transform him “from a business savvy capitalist into a compassionate young entrepreneur seeking to empower others using the same business principles in the classroom. … I believe my experiences with refugees and having the world as my classroom have prepared me well for the entrepreneurial profession.”

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