My name is Aleisha Whipple, and as an undergraduate, I studied Biology EEE (Environmental Biology, Ecology, Evolution) with a minor in Sustainable Development. For my senior fall semester (2024), I traversed across the globe to study at the University of Waikato on the North Island of New Zealand.
I participated in a direct exchange program with the University of Waikato, and was coined the first Appalachian State University student to attend this institution. While there, I studied Climate and Indigenous Studies with a focus on Pacific and Māori culture, as well as marine ecology, to fulfill requirements within my biology major and sustainable development minor. Additionally, I participated in Intern NZ, a program that partnered me with AgResearch NZ to work with pastoral scientists. One aspect of life that I loved while living in New Zealand was learning about climate change from an indigenous perspective. I had many cultural experiences and exchanges in my four months of living there, including a week-long volunteer program at an Māori-owned permaculture farm and a traditional kava ceremony. I even participated in my first Hāngī, a traditional pit-cooked feast to celebrate Kīngitanga Day, a holiday in remembrance and celebration of Māori leadership. An unexpected part of my journey included solo travelling to the South Island to see the “eighth wonder of the world”, Milford Sound.
There was one key factor that made my study abroad dream come true, and that was being awarded the Benjamin A.Gilman International Scholarship for Pell Grant recipients. The Gilman scholarship grants students with financial need to study abroad. Though this scholarship is highly competitive, with a selection rate of roughly 25%, it is well worth the time and effort to apply to. The Gilman scholarship granted me the opportunity to enhance my knowledge of climate change through a global perspective, which further enhanced my professional and leadership skills through networking and mutual understanding. The essays required for this scholarship allow you to explore your skill sets, motivations, and future contributions you plan to bring back to your community in the form of a service project. I enjoyed the process of writing these essays as it allowed me to increase a sense of self and passion towards my career goals. The writing process was easy and well-managed with the help of Appalachian State University’s Writing Center. I highly recommend using this resource by making an appointment effortlessly through TracCloud. You can also utilize the Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships to help in crafting your application. You can make an appointment with them through Appointlet. Overall, without the Gilman Scholarship, I would not have had the experience of a lifetime, and I would not have had access to their amazing alumni network with endless opportunities after my time abroad. If you are a Pell Grant Recipient looking to study abroad, do not hesitate and go apply for this scholarship; you will not regret it!
One key takeaway from my time in New Zealand is that we can be the change we want to see in this world. With my passion for exploring positive climate action, this meant to me that change can happen, and we can all be “change-makers” in our own paths in the fight against climate change. Upon my return to App State, I felt a strong sense of urgency to follow this path by continuing my higher education as a Master’s Student at App State.
Studying abroad was the best decision I ever made as an undergraduate, and I encourage everyone I meet to pursue it, even if you do not think you can afford it. There are many scholarship opportunities out there for financially limited students, including the Gilman Scholarship. App State’s Office of International Education has an abundance of people and resources willing to help you pursue your goals.
About the Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships –Nationally Competitive Scholarships (NCS) works with the Appalachian community to recruit and support students for nationally competitive scholarships and fellowships, including those that support study abroad, language study, research, and post-graduate education opportunities. This is achieved with outreach, mentorship, and advising throughout the entire scholarship journey. NCS is committed to helping undergraduate and graduate students discover ways to connect their Appalachian education to their future endeavors through scholarship opportunities. Learn more at ncs.appstate.edu.
Written by Aleisha Whipple
October 30, 2025
Boone, N.C.
Girl with blonde hair wearing an orange hat wearing an App State shirt holding up a symbol with her hands. Ocean and trees are in the background.
