“I hope to learn new ways of thinking and challenging what I already know,” says Shann Sivajeevan C’27
February 2026 – Drew University junior Shann Sivajeevan C’27 is spending the spring 2026 semester in Tokyo thanks in part to a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.
The Gilman Scholarship is run by the U.S. Department of State and supports undergraduates in their dreams to study internationally.
“I felt a wave of relief after being awarded the GIlman Scholarship,” said Sivajeevan, a computer science and business double major. “Programs like this really make opportunities like study abroad more accessible for many students, and it will definitely help me support myself financially while studying abroad, which brings more unexpected living expenses than a semester on Drew’s campus.”
Sivajeevan has enjoyed learning about Japan in his first weeks abroad. While overseas, Sivajeevan is planning to expand his interpersonal abilities and learn more about international business culture.
“By living in a different environment, I hope to learn new ways of thinking and challenging what I already know,” he said. “I believe that after the exposure to different cultures, I can add what I learn to my personal development. I’m excited to learn from professors, meet new peers, and make meaningful connections with local people.”
Sivajeevan was quick to acknowledge Drew’s Global Education team for their support in receiving the Gilman Scholarship, and coordinating the semester abroad through Temple University, Japan Campus.
“Drew’s Global Ed team has been helpful throughout this process,” he said. “They were swift in assisting with the required documents for my application and offered to connect with faculty to help my application, which made everything feel much more manageable and stress-free.”
