Diversity & Inclusion in American Councils Study Abroad Programs: Laila Simone Robinson

This brief video features Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship recipient Laila Simone Robinson discussing the impact of the award on her education and career. Laila Simone is one of the more than 150 scholarship recipients who have participated in American Councils Study Abroad programs with support from the Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Fund. These need-based scholarships were created in 2016 to champion study abroad for all and ensure transformational international opportunities are accessible to students from traditionally underserved and disadvantaged segments of the United States.

The study abroad programs are offered in 24 countries, including Bulgaria, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Poland, South Korea, and Taiwan, and provide access to languages and cultures not widely served by other educational institutions. The scholarships help cover the costs of tuition, room and board, health insurance, cultural activities, and visa support for exceptional students of all backgrounds, many of whom would not be able to afford these essential educational opportunities without assistance. Many recipients go on to important careers in academia, the government, and international leadership roles across the globe that are essential to America's prosperity.