International relations/economics dual major Natalia Bailey '10 has been selected to receive the National Security Education Program (NSEP) Boren Undergraduate Scholarship merit award.
The David L. Boren National Security Education Program was established by Congress in the aftermath of the Cold War. The program provides outstanding and highly motivated U.S. students with funding that supports acquiring language skills and cultural experience in countries critical to the future security of our nation, in exchange for a commitment to work in the federal government.
Bailey, from Humble, Texas, won an $18,900 award and will study this year (2008-09) at the American University of Cairo in Egypt.
"The majority of my time will be spent on study of the Arabic language, both colloquial and modern standard," Bailey says. "My other focus is on development studies, so I am taking economic development and Intro to Development this semester, along with a photography class. Next semester I plan to take economic and political anthropology, the Arabic classes, and a political economy of North Africa class."
Bailey says winning the award has been eye opening. "It provided me with an opportunity to go abroad and not burden my family financially, but also serves as a guiding light for my future," she says. "The NSEP award helps place you in employment through a government agency of your choice after graduation. To have that sort of one-on-one guidance and prestige is unparalleled."
Bailey says she is "beyond grateful" for the opportunity that the NSEP Boren Scholarship represents. "I can't really explain to you the amount of security, help, and peace of mind it brings to myself, my family, and to my sisters and brothers who look up to me," she says.
Post-graduation plans include identifying another organization able to finance her continued study of the Arabic language and economic development.
"From there, I am really open to whatever opportunities come my way," Bailey says.