Foundation
Bonenfant International Travel Scholarship
Study abroad and expand your research in optics and photonics.
Application Dates
25 Mar 2024 - 13 May 2024Program Prize
US$9,000
Apply NowFoundation
The Bonenfant International Travel Scholarship enables students enrolled in engineering and/or physical science programs to attend semester-abroad programs offered through their accredited college or university. The goal of the scholarship is to provide international experience to students as they prepare for professional lives that promote global engagement and collaboration.
Application Information
How To Apply
Apply when open at apply.optica.org
Important Dates
Opens 25 March 2024
Closes 13 May 2024
Applicant Requirements
- Be a student enrolled in engineering and/or physical science programs
- Have at least a 3.0 grade point average (or the equivalent)
- Have applied for, or been accepted to, a study-abroad program of at least 6 weeks’ duration
- Show a demonstrated interest in optics related research and applications
- Be a resident of the U.S. and a graduate of a 12-year pre-college school in the U.S. (Note: This requirement is in support of the scholarship’s focus on promoting global engagement between students living in the U.S. and their counterparts around the world.)
- Agree to blog and/or utilize social media platforms to document their trip and to share their experiences and the insights they have gained from living in another culture
Application Requirements
- Short Answer Questions
- In 250 words or less, describe why you are interested in participating in a study abroad academic program.
- In 250 words or less, demonstrate your interest in optics and photonics research.
- In 250 words or less, share your financial need and how this scholarship will allow you to participate in a global study abroad program.
- CV or resume: Must not exceed four (4) pages
- Short budget reflecting the anticipated use of this scholarship – must utilize budget template provided.
- GPA Certificate (Min 3.0 or Equivalent)
- Two letters of recommendation. At least one of the letters should be from a faculty member who is familiar with the student’s educational performance.
Past Recipients
- This program did not occur between 2020-2022
- Travis Sawyer, University of Arizona, USA (2019)
- Adrianna Mitchell, University of Arizona, USA (2018)
- Alden Hoke, Drexel University, USA (2018)
- Evan Sloan, California Institute of Technology, USA (2016)
- Victorine Muse, Cornell University, USA (2015)
- Margaret Cron, Ohio State University, USA (2014)
- Stephanie Laga, California Institute of Technology, USA (2013)
2023 Selection Committee
| Name | Affiliation | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Stefano Baroni | McKinsey & Company | CANADA |
| Kyounghee Min | UNITED STATES | |
| Lynn E Nelson | AT&T Labs | UNITED STATES |
| Maria E Pontones-Bonenfant | UNITED STATES |
