Tuesday, January 15, 2008
USI sophomore studying in Thailand this semester
 Jessie Kessler, a sophomore International Studies major at USI, is studying at Thammasat University in Bangkok, Thailand, this semester.Kessler, the daughter of Mary and Brian Davis of Charlestown, Indiana and a 2006 graduate of Charlestown High School, applied for and was awarded a Freeman Award for Study in Asia, a nationally competitive scholarship. The Freeman-ASIA scholarships are meant to increase the number of U.S. undergraduates who study in East and Southeast Asia. Award recipients are expected to share their experiences with their home campuses to encourage study abroad in East and Southeast Asia by others, and to spread greater understanding of Asian peoples and cultures within their home communities. “I grew up in a small town but I always watched the travel channel,” she said. “I loved to learn about people in other countries. One year we had an exchange student at our high school. I became friends with her and she taught me a lot about her culture. From then on I have always wanted to travel the world. Also, one of my hobbies is to learn languages.” Kessler arrived in Bangkok in January. She chose Thailand because she wanted to go to an Asian country where fewer Americans have studied. She doesn’t speak Thai, but said, “Many people here speak enough English for me to get around pretty easily. I am taking a Thai Language class right now and I have made friends with some Thai students who speak English.” In addition to the language course, she is enrolled in Buddhist Institutions, Thai Rural Development, and Art History and Archaeology of Thailand this semester. She said one of the most striking cultural differences is the method of greeting. “They don’t shake hands. They do what is called a wai. It is when they put their hands together and bow their heads. This is not only a way to say hello, but the deeper you wai the more you show respect for the person to whom you are waiing.” At USI, Kessler worked in the International Programs and Services office, was involved in the International Club and Global Community, and volunteered with the English as a Second Language International program. After graduation she hopes to volunteer with the Peace Corps and work for a non-governmental organization. Undergraduates and graduate students can browse scholarship opportunities on the online home of USI’s Nationally Competitive Scholarship Office, which offers students a faculty mentor for each scholarship. Heidi Gregori-Gahan, director of International Programs and Services, helps students apply for the Freeman-ASIA scholarships. Dr. Brian Posler, assistant vice president for Academic Affairs, oversees the office. “I am proud of Jessie’s achievement,” he said. “This shows once again how competitive our students are when they compete in these national competitions. I wish more of our best students would take the plunge and apply.” For more information about nationally competitive scholarships, click here or contact Posler at 812/465-7020. |
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