Brookdale Student Expands Horizons Abroad with Gilman Scholarship

For many students, the idea of studying abroad can feel out of reach, both financially daunting and logistically overwhelming. But for Brookdale Community College student Jessica Wishnick, a chance encounter on campus turned into a transformative journey overseas, made possible through the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.

Jessica wasn’t actively seeking a study abroad experience when her journey began. “I was just passing by the International Education Center in the MAC building,” she recalls. “I started talking to the staff, got some information, and before I knew it, I was applying.”

Jessica, a Monmouth County resident and Pell Grant recipient, learned that the Gilman Scholarship, a U.S. State Department grant, provides up to $5,000 to help students with financial need participate in study or internship opportunities abroad. “It’s designed to make global experiences accessible to students who might not otherwise get the chance,” she explains. “And that’s exactly what it did for me.”

The application process wasn’t easy. Jessica spent months preparing her materials, which included confirming eligibility, gathering transcripts, and writing three essays. “It was a lot of work,” she admits. “But it was worth every minute.”

Once awarded the scholarship, Jessica used the funds to cover travel, housing, tuition, and meals, expenses that otherwise would have been prohibitive. “The scholarship basically covered everything,” she says. “It took away the financial stress and allowed me to focus on the experience.”

With the scholarship secured, Jessica enrolled in a faculty-led course abroad, Abnormal Psychology with Professor Christina Greco, Ph.D., assistant dean of Humanities and Social Science Division, and embarked on a one-week immersive learning experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

“It was incredible,” she says. “We visited the Van Gogh Museum, explored the Red Light District, toured the Anne Frank House, and even learned how chocolate is made at the Zaanse Schans windmill village.”

The trip wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was deeply personal and transformative. “I grew up Jewish, so visiting the Anne Frank House was powerful,” Jessica shares. “Walking the halls where she lived and understanding what she faced changed me. It was emotional and eye-opening.”

Jessica returned from Amsterdam not just with academic credit, but with a new perspective on the world and herself. “It was more than a class — it was a life-changing experience,” she says. “I came back more aware, more empathetic, and more confident in what I can do.”

Now, she’s encouraging other Brookdale students to explore similar opportunities. “Even if you’re just curious, stop by the International Education Center,” Jessica urges. “I’m a lower-income, older student living on my own, and I never thought studying abroad was possible. This scholarship broke down that barrier and gave me experiences I’ll carry forever.”

Students interested in studying abroad or applying for the Gilman Scholarship can visit the International Education Center in MAC 114 or explore programs online at brookdalecc.edu/international/study-abroad.

Listen to the 90.5 The Night podcast with Jessica.