Honors students awarded engineering study abroad scholarships

Honors students Caroline Duncan and Gavin Grann have earned study abroad awards from the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering's 100+ Women Strong organization and Birdsong Scholarship to support their international experiences this summer, helping send Duncan to Italy and Grann to Chile.

Earning these awards will give both students the opportunity to broaden their global perspectives, exploring how their unique skills can contribute to building a better world.

Caroline Duncan awarded 100+ Women Strong

Caroline Duncan, an Honors College scholar and computer science major, was selected as a recipient of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering’s 100+ Women Strong Scholarship. This award, designed to recognize and support engineering students participating in a study abroad program, acknowledges Duncan’s dedication to her education and commitment to expanding her global perspective. 

This summer, she will travel to Milan, Italy, where she looks forward to deepening her understanding of the business industry and its connection to the technical world. As she explores Europe, she is excited to gain valuable international experience, an appreciation for other cultures and an enhanced sense of independence.  

"As a computer science major, I have come to understand that there is often a large crossover between the technical and business worlds, and I hope to have a career in the future where I can apply my interests in both of these fields," said Duncan. "Completing this minor will be an amazing opportunity to explore specifically my interest in business while complementing my computer science curriculum." 

The 100+ Women Strong organization has been a vital part of Duncan's Auburn experience, connecting her with a mentor, providing valuable networking opportunities and now helping her pursue her personal travel aspirations.

"The organizations’ members have taught me so much and have been a massive support to me throughout my career," she said. "I’m excited to have the opportunity to share what I take away from this experience with this incredible community." 

Gavin Grann Awarded Birdsong Scholarship

Honors scholar Gavin Grann received the Birdsong Scholarship, a study abroad award granted to Samuel Ginn College of Engineering students. It aims to expand students' perspectives by encouraging them to pursue coursework beyond the realm of engineering, enhancing their overall academic experience. 

A sophomore majoring in electrical engineering, Grann is looking forward to studying abroad this summer in Chile. While abroad, he intends on improving his Spanish-speaking skills and fostering a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the Chilean culture.  

Grann sees this opportunity as a foundational experience in his professional journey, preparing him for future research opportunities in Spanish-speaking countries as he enters the workforce.

"The Chilean regions I visit will introduce me to new social and cultural ways of life," he said. "Being flexible and sensitive to these features of international travel will instill valuable interpersonal skills as I enter the workforce, especially since I have never been abroad before." 

Grann, along with his triplet brothers, will visit three major geographical regions in Chile: the northern Atacama Desert, the central Maipo Valley and the central-southern Lakes District. Through a series of environmental tours, Grann hopes to gain a better understanding of the historical landmarks' connections to each of their local communities.

"I hope I will take away an understanding of how to operate in a foreign environment and be adaptive to the cultural and social features of a different nation," he said.

Story written by Kristen Fielding.