Did you know there’s a scholarship to travel to America that’s only open to Nottinghamshire residents? It’s called the Nottingham Roosevelt Memorial Travelling Scholarship and is focused on young people aged between 21 and 35. So, if you or anyone you know is in this age range, please read on.
The idea behind the scholarship is that the more people travel and meet other cultures, the better we all become. It was set up in Nottingham to honour President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and so focuses on travel between Nottinghamshire and the USA. Many cities put up statues to the President for the role he played in helping end World War II but Nottingham chose to have a living memorial instead, in the form of a scholarship.
Applicants choose a subject they’re passionate about which will benefit from development by a visit to the US. This can be any subject and doesn’t have to be related to their work. It’s hoped that, by developing the project, they’ll bring back new insights from the States to benefit the scholar, their employer and the county.
You can choose the timing of your travel as long as it’s completed by the end of 2020. The scholarship can be either 6 or 12 weeks long and includes return flights to New York City plus a grant of either £1,500 for a 6 week trip or £3,000 for a 12 week trip.
You can apply online for the scholarship at https://rooseveltscholarship.org/how-to-apply/ . There’s then a two stage interview process in Nottingham and then County Hall West Bridgford. The deadline for applications is Friday 6th March.
Previous scholars have found this a life changing experience. You travel alone in the States meeting amazing people and becoming immersed in US life. Your network grows, you learn more about your topic and come back full of energy and enthusiasm. It builds your self-belief and confidence, and looks great on your CV.
You’ll find more details on the website, where you can also register your interest and submit an enquiry form if you have any specific questions. You can also follow the scholarship on Twitter @NottsRoosevelt and Facebook @NRMTS.
Russ Blenkinsop, NRMTS Secretary