Students earn scholarships for passports

Three students earned scholarships to purchase passports, the first step to a study abroad experience.

Vanesha Blackburn, a sociology major, Jaedah Pickens, psychology major, and Alita Reneau, marketing major, used their scholarships to apply for passports during the February 23 fair, sponsored by the Padnos International Center.

PIC joined with TRIO Student Support Services and Sophomore Academy to provide passport scholarships; it's the second year scholarships have been offered to students who participate in TRIO or Sophomore Academy programs.

Blackburn and Pickens will participate in a study abroad program in Ghana, Reneau will participate in a program that divides time between Oman and United Arab Emirates.

Reneau said she's excited for the opportunity for new experiences in a different culture. "It will be a good experience to go outside of my comfort zone," she said.