When I applied for Sigma Tau Delta’s Short-Term Study Abroad Scholarship, I hoped it would help make my dream of studying abroad possible. Thanks to that support, I spent two weeks studying abroad in London, an experience that broadened my perspective, strengthened my professional skills and changed the way I think about my future.
As a digital journalism major at The University of Southern Mississippi, I’ve focused on learning how to tell stories and connecting with people. Studying abroad gave me opportunities to practice those skills in a completely new environment. Throughout the trip, I met people from different backgrounds, initiated conversations, asked questions and learned how to navigate unfamiliar situations. Those experiences helped me become more confident in my communication, networking, and interviewing abilities, which are instrumental skills to any journalistic career.
I also am working toward an English minor because of my love for literature. One of the most meaningful moments of the trip was visiting Virginia Woolf’s childhood home and walking through Kensington Gardens, where she once walked herself. Woolf is my favorite author, and seeing the places that shaped her life made her work feel more real and personal. While I learned a great deal from visiting various museums, touring Parliament and taking historical tours throughout the city of London, walking the same path a writer I idolize once walked was unforgettable.
My study abroad experience also influenced my future career plans. I have lived in Mississippi my entire life, and before this trip, I was unsure how I would feel about moving somewhere new after graduation. Spending two weeks in another country showed me that I am capable of adapting to unfamiliar environments. Now, I know distance is not a barrier that stands in the way of me accepting a job that will lead me to a successful career doing something I am passionate about. While I may not move across the world, I feel much more open to pursuing career opportunities far from home after studying abroad.
Receiving the Sigma Tau Delta scholarship made my experience even more meaningful. Because the funds were deposited directly into my bank account, I decided to use them as spending money while in London. Having that financial support gave me the privilege of not getting too caught up in costs and allowed me to fully participate in the experience. As the first person in my family to study abroad—and to travel internationally on this scale—I knew this was likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and that I should treat it as such by saying “yes” as often as I could afford to. Neither I nor my family would have otherwise been able to fund a trip like this, so having the freedom to enjoy every moment without having to say no to experiences because of money meant more than I can express.
Out of everything I learned while studying abroad, something I will always carry with me is that growth often happens when you step outside your comfort zone. I am incredibly grateful to Sigma Tau Delta for helping me make this experience possible.
Ashlyn Joyner
Short-Term Study Abroad Scholarship Recipient, Fall 2025
Alpha Nu Gamma Chapter
University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS
Study Abroad Scholarships
The scholarship provides funding for the purpose of studying in a program that furthers the applicant’s engagement with Sigma Tau Delta’s mission. Students may apply for either a Long-Term or Short-Term scholarship. Applicants should demonstrate academic scholarship and chapter service; they also must explain the relevance of their study abroad program and activities to fostering the discipline of English, including literature, language, writing, or literacy.
Long-Term Study Abroad Scholarship
The Long-Term Study Abroad Scholarship provides up to $3,000 for students studying for a full academic term or year in a certified, undergraduate program outside the country in which the nominating chapter is located.
Short-Term Study Abroad Scholarship
The Short-Term Study Abroad Scholarship provides up to $1,500 to support participation in an undergraduate study-abroad program of less than an academic term. The program must be a certified, undergraduate program outside the country in which the nominating chapter is located.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Currently an undergraduate student
- Plan to study abroad in a certified undergraduate program for all or part of an academic term
All applications will be submitted via the AwardSpring Online submission process.
Application Deadline: October 12 – 26, 2026, 4:00 p.m. CT
Sigma Tau Delta
Sigma Tau Delta, International English Honor Society, was founded in 1924 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The Society strives to
- Confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies;
- Provide, through its local chapters, cultural stimulation on college campuses and promote interest in literature and the English language in surrounding communities;
- Foster all aspects of the discipline of English, including literature, language, and writing;
- Promote exemplary character and good fellowship among its members;
- Exhibit high standards of academic excellence; and
- Serve society by fostering literacy.
With over 900 active chapters located in the United States and abroad, there are more than 1,000 Faculty Advisors, and approximately 9,000 members inducted annually.
Sigma Tau Delta also recognizes the accomplishments of professional writers who have contributed to the fields of language and literature.
