Juliana McClure felt her heart pulling her toward exploring the world, but her mind insisted that study abroad was out of reach.
The Ohio Northern University student faced financial challenges, didn’t have a passport or any international travel experience, and she struggled with anxiety.
But where Juliana saw insurmountable obstacles, ONU’s Office of Global Initiatives, part of the Center for Student Success, merely saw roadblocks that could be dismantled.
First, they identified the perfect study abroad opportunity for Juliana, who aspires to be a human rights attorney and is majoring in political science with minors in international relations and pre-law.
Next, they helped her obtain an alumni scholarship and encouraged her to apply for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship program through the U.S. Department of State. With help from Competitive Fellowships and Scholarships advisor Mary Drzycimski-Finn, also part of the Center for Student Success, Juliana wrote outstanding essays that resulted in her being awarded the highly-competitive Gilman Scholarship.
After clearing the financial barrier, Global Initiatives staff helped Juliana navigate getting her passport. They also extensively prepared her for the journey and cultural immersion.
“(Study abroad) was a very big emotional and mental step forward for me, and they helped me ease into it and feel comfortable.”
In June 2024, Juliana participated in “Conflicts and the Struggle for Peace: Explorations in Ireland and the Middle East” through the Foundation for International Education (FIE).
“It was absolutely the best five weeks of my entire life,” she said.
In Dublin, Ireland, she studied Irish history at Trinity College, learning extensively about The Troubles. She visited museums and explored the cities of Belfast and Derry.
In Jordan, she enjoyed the hospitality of a Jordanian grandmother with six children and 30 grandchildren. She delved into the history behind Middle East conflicts, with visits to a refugee camp, the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, and the ancient city of Petra, one of the seven wonders of the world.
“I learned that I thrive when I am learning and experiencing. I learned that I have to travel, I can’t stay in one place. I learned to feel stronger as a woman and as someone who can fight for human rights.”
And, she added, “I learned that the world is a very, very beautiful place.”