“The Shanghai Jiao Tong Engineering Term Abroad will provide me with a global experience in an increasingly globalized world,” Bowman said.  “SJTU is one of the top technical schools in the world.  It exposes students to a diversified team environment with plant tours and project information sessions at local companies. Language is another key element in the experience.” 

Inspired by a service trip to Port-au-Prince, Haiti; Bowman hopes to work in the health care field as an engineer. He volunteered at a free prosthesis center for local underprivileged families and has been focused on health care engineering ever since. 

“Developing global competency is an essential element of Charles’ professional growth as an engineer,” said James Jones, associate head and associate professor of mechanical engineering. “Experiences such as his Shanghai Jiao Tong Engineering Term Abroad will broaden his horizons and help him learn how to function across cultural boundaries.  Such experiences are no longer optional, but an essential part of students’ professional development.” 

Gilman scholars receive up to $8,000 to apply toward their study abroad or internship costs.  The program offers undergraduates of limited financial means the opportunity to pursue academic studies or credit-bearing, career-oriented internships abroad.  By gaining a better understanding of other cultures, countries, languages and economies, the Gilman Program says scholarship recipients are better prepared to assume leadership roles within government and the private sector. 

“I will experience a completely unfamiliar culture and language, while being educated at one of the top-tier technical universities in the world and developing professionally,” Bowman added.  “I am confident this program will leave me changed unlike any other experience could.” 

Students receiving a Federal Pell Grant who will be studying abroad, particularly in a country with a critical need language, are eligible to apply for a Gilman Scholarship.  They can receive application assistance from Purdue’s National and International Scholarships Office and the Purdue Writing Lab. 

Contact: Lindsay Perrault, 765-427-1923, lperraul@purdue.edu