Emerson Scholarship Intent & Vision Statement

It is our vision that all students with the desire to study abroad, who have not previously done so, should have the opportunity to participate in a program of their choice.  The Emerson International Education Scholarship will fund students who desire to participate in a study abroad program, but would not be able to do so without financial assistance. While we believe that all study abroad programs have the potential to transform, this scholarship will fund programs to countries outside of Western Europe where students are less likely to travel later in their life.

The application for the Emerson Scholarship for the Advancement of International Education is now closed.

Scholarship Recipient Eligibility

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Must be a full-time undergraduate student
  • Participating in a summer education abroad program outside of Western Europe
  • Program must include community engagement
  • Support letter (optional) – Letters of support are optional and should emphasize personal qualities or accomplishments that make the applicant a particularly compelling candidate.
  • Must be able to demonstrate financial need for the scholarship

Qualifying Programs

The following programs are eligible for the Emerson Scholarship:

About the Emersons

Christina and Thomas Emerson have lived in Cobb County since 1989. Tom is a physician in the WellStar Medical Group who is known for his compassion and sense of humor. Christie is a professor in KSU’s WellStar School of Nursing where she loves to share her passion for the nursing profession, and was the faculty director of an education abroad program to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates for six years. “As we considered how to give back to our community, we decided that a scholarship aligned best with our appreciation for our own education. When we considered what kind of scholarship would make the most impact, we both felt that nothing is more powerful than the transformational experience of studying abroad.

"We believe that a study abroad experience is one of the most impactful educational opportunities a student can have during their undergraduate career. A structured study abroad experience can provide the stimulation, challenges, and opportunities needed to transform a student’s view of the world.  In addition, we believe that study abroad develops independence, self-confidence, and global awareness."

- Christina & Thomas Emerson

The Emerson's at dinner