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Study Abroad

Global Women Scholars Program

Women leaders paving the way for meaningful change

The Global Women Scholars Program (GWS) is a three-year experiential leadership development initiative for women+ Bentley students who are interested in a tailored global education. Through GWS, scholars will participate in hands-on, international experiences geared toward expanding their understanding of gender equity, service-learning, and responsible global citizenship. Scholars will receive a stipend up to $12,000 to put toward an international internship that takes place in the summer between their sophomore and junior years.

Global Women Scholars will learn to articulate what it means to be a global citizen, develop and enhance their cross-cultural skills, and practice community engagement in a responsible, ethical way.  Through the international internship, scholars will identify complex global challenges by gaining work experience through an international lens and context. 

Students selected for this prestigious program will be notified at the time of their acceptance to Bentley.

Program Details

Study Abroad

Benefits and Requirements

  • Specially designed leadership workshops and selected coursework as part of the academic experience
  • Participation in the BentleyPlus program
  • Career Ready Certificate through Bentley’s partnership with the Forte Foundation
  • Participation in Bentley Service-Learning and Civic Engagement programs
  • A one-time stipend of up to $12,000 for an international internship experience

Scholars will document their experience while abroad and prepare a short video upon completion, showcasing trip highlights and takeaways. 

 

Dr. Summer Marion
Global Women Scholars provides a fantastic opportunity for future leaders to build skills, networks and momentum for social good in a changing world.
Summer Marion, PhD
Assistant Professor, Global Studies

Summer Marion, PhD

Success by the Numbers

Princeton Review ranking #1 Career Services

#1 Best Career Services

The Princeton Review ranked Bentley No. 1 for career services. This is the 15th year in a row that Bentley’s Pulsifer Career Development Center has been ranked in the top 5 in the U.S., highlighting the university’s successful approach to making sure that students secure good jobs and thrive after graduation. 

USNews Rankings

#1 Most Innovative

In its most recent rankings, U.S. News & World Report recognized Bentley University as the No. 1 Most Innovative School and the No. 2 Best Regional University in the North. These accolades reflect the university's ongoing dedication to enhancing the educational experience and adapting to the needs of its students.

Julia Hvoslef
Through experiential learning and the exploration of sociocultural opportunities across the globe, students receive an education that truly sets them apart.
Julia Hvoslef
Director of Gender and Sexuality Student Programs

Women Who Lead

Planning an Eventful Hospitality Career

Working behind the scenes at Gillette Stadium for concerts like Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift has been eventful.

Read Adriana's Story

Advocating for Women in the Workforce

Named to Forbes "30 Under 30" list, Kristina devotes her time to gender equity and women's empowerment.

Read Kristina's Story

Running with the Best

It’s not surprising that a Bentley track and field superstar has kickstarted her career at New Balance. 

Read Chase's Story

Global Citizen for Change

Bentley's Service-Learning and Civic Engagement program inspire Aliyah to challenge the status quo. 

Read Aliyah's Story

Preparing Inclusive Leaders

Yaro Fong-Olivaries
Bentley attracts women who are driven, ambitious and smart. They care about themselves and the world and want to lead with purpose.
Yaro Fong-Olivares
Executive Director, Gloria Cordis Larson Center for Women and Business

Global Women Scholars Program FAQS

When will I receive the stipend?

The stipend will be credited to your student account prior to your departure. If there are no outstanding charges on your account, the amount will be refunded to you to use for your travel and living expenses. 

Under what conditions would I receive the full $12,000 stipend?

Most internships are for credit. However, in the event that your internship is for pay, you will receive a reduced stipend amount since the stipend is intended to cover travel and living expenses. Also, international internships that occur during the academic year are covered by existing financial aid policies and may limit the amount of stipend you may receive. 

Is an international internship assigned to me, or do I have to apply for it?

Scholars will work with our Cronin Office of International Education to identify international internships. It will be up to the scholar to take advantage of all the services the center has to offer and ultimately it will be the scholar’s responsibility to apply and secure an internship.

Do I need to major in International Affairs to be eligible for the program?

No. Most business majors are compatible with the program and scholars may choose to double major. 

 

Can I also take advantage of a study abroad semester while at Bentley?

Yes. The program does not limit study abroad options.

How is the Global Women Scholars program different from the Women’s Leadership Program?

The Global Women Scholars program is both an academic and co-curricular program. It is tailored for students looking for a unique leadership experience with a global lens. The cohorts for the program will be smaller by design, thus scholars will receive personalized attention to better advance each participant's development. 

How do I accept my invitation to this program?

Complete the Global Women Scholars reply form through your BentleyConnect portal. 

Where do I go if I have more questions?

For answers to additional questions, please contact Donna Kendall at: dkendall@bentley.edu