Glen Kettering, a junior majoring in global studies, was awarded Richmond's first Gilman-McCain Scholarship, named in honor of former U.S. Senator and Navy officer John McCain.

The award comes under the State Department’s Gilman Scholarship Program and provides funds to exceptional U.S. undergraduates who might not otherwise be able to study abroad. As the son of a father who serves in the Navy, Kettering fulfills the criteria requiring the recipient to be a dependent of a military member.

Kettering was enrolled in an immersive academic experience studying politics, including the country's historic shift from communism to democracy, at the Academic Experience in Prague. Kettering learned directly from those driving change in the country. A former foreign minister of the Czech Republic taught his class on European-American relations. An adviser on the board of the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs taught his course on European politics.

"I took a lot of fascinating humanities-oriented classes that gave me deep insight into Czech politics, as well as politics in the European Union, their history, and where they're headed next," Kettering said.

"I was able to see what democratic transition looked like and see the effects of liberalization, democracy, and a market economy." His own family hails from Cuba — a place he's visited often and where he has witnessed a communist system firsthand.

One of many memorable moments during his studies abroad was attending a conference at the European Union headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. There, he met with diplomats and politicians from the U.S. and the EU and learned more about life working in these positions.

"We also discussed the future impact that we as scholars can make by stepping into this role in an ever-changing world."

Walking around Prague, Kettering was struck by Soviet-style architecture and the other echoes of the Communist era. "There are still remnants of that while the whole country navigates this transitional phase," he said.

His study abroad experience also allowed him to observe the Czech Republic's commitment to democratic values. "There's a lot of patriotism among the population," he said. "They're proud of where they have come from and how they've been able to persevere against all odds."

Sandra Joireman, a political science professor and the Weinstein Chair of International Studies Professor of Political Science, advises Kettering on his academic studies and potential career path.

"Glen had the opportunity to see how others outside of the U.S. see the world and the challenges of the 21st century," Joireman said. “An immersive opportunity like he had leads to growth in adaptability and cultural sensitivity. He has a broader understanding that will stay with him through his life."

Ethan Knight, associate director at UR's Office of Scholars and Fellowships, said in addition to expanding students' worldviews, Gilman and Gilman-McCain Scholars are granted non-competitive hiring eligibility for federal positions after graduation, along with access to a network of Gilman alumni and career workshops.

"Scholars like Glen gain skills that will help them contribute to the mission of mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries. These scholarships also make the students stronger candidates for other awards, such as the Fulbright U.S. Student Program," he said.

Kettering is considering international development among his future job possibilities, though he believes he will transition to a non-governmental organization in the private sector later in his career.

"Part of our work here in the Office of Scholars and Fellowships is to help students learn that there are a multitude of opportunities available," Knight said.