Rustic Pathways Announces 2023 College Scholarship Winners

Josh Eubanks
University of Georgia

Josh Eubanks is a fourth-year Social Studies Education student at the University of Georgia with the aspiration of becoming a high school history teacher. His goal is to be the type of educator who equips students with critical thinking abilities and fosters teamwork, preparing them for life beyond the classroom. Josh is committed to ensuring that his teaching methods contribute to the development of people in the years to come.

“I am so thankful and excited that I have been chosen for this award! This scholarship is going to help me succeed in my education and put me on track to be the best teacher I can be,” says Eubanks. “I am glad to know that Rustic Pathways is out there to support students like me by helping to relieve the financial stress that comes with pursuing a degree. From myself and my family we are immensely grateful for the Global Perspectives Scholarship. Thank you, Rustic Pathways, for being there for me.”

Mia Kim
University of Pennsylvania

Mia Kim is a junior at the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Biology and Computer Science. She is passionate about older adult health and interventions, which she intertwines with her love for education.

Mia finds fulfillment in her volunteer roles, serving as a nurse’s aide and an emergency room volunteer at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She also serves as Treasurer for Penn’s StudentsCare branch, organizing events to facilitate connections between students, seniors, and pediatric patients. Mia writes for PennScience to increase accessibility to health information, and promotes equitable access to educational resources through the Cooperation Act’s executive board.

With a passion for research, she is currently immersed in the study of blood biomarkers related to Alzheimer’s Disease. As she pursues a future career in the health field, Mia hopes to continue following her passions to make a positive impact.

“I am incredibly grateful to have been chosen for the Global Perspectives scholarship, as it will help support my educational journey and encourage me to be the best student that I can be,” says Kim. “I sincerely appreciate the work that Rustic Pathways does to give students a voice and in encouraging students to pursue their passions. As someone passionate about educational equity I am so glad that organizations like these continue to work to support education and learning for students.”

Clairissa Ponce
California Baptist University

Clairissa Ponce is a first-generation Latina college student currently enrolled in the Biomedical Sciences Master of Science program at California Baptist University. She is on the pre-medical track and has plans to apply to medical school next spring. Throughout her premedical journey, Clairissa has discovered a profound passion for serving underrepresented communities.

During the past two summers, Clairissa has been fortunate to engage in two medical outreach internships, one in Peru and another in Panama. In the course of these experiences, she guided groups of students in foreign countries to provide medical clinics to remote communities lacking access to healthcare. These rewarding opportunities ignited her interest in global healthcare and fuel her commitment to serving communities in need.

“I feel very blessed to receive the Global Perspectives Scholarship as it will help ease the financial burden of higher education,” says Ponce. “I cannot thank Rustic Pathways enough! I find myself very proud to work with Rustic Pathways as their mission to transform students into global citizens through impactful travel greatly aligns with my passions and core values.”

Emily Hwang
University of Georgia

Emily Hwang is a first-year undergraduate honors student at the University of Georgia. She’s currently pursuing degrees in Political Science and International Affairs with an interest in Pre-Law. As a member of the UGA ModelUN Competition Team, Emily engages in thought-provoking global issue debates and has formed meaningful connections that enrich her freshman experience.

She is deeply committed to volunteer work, particularly as an assistant figure skating coach in the Learn-to-Skate program. Emily aims to instill confidence and a passion for skating in her students, many of whom continue their training beyond the program. Emily has also gained insights into the corporate world through an internship with Framo Morat Inc. in Germany. Working alongside colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds has enhanced her understanding of international business and cross-cultural collaboration.

“I’m deeply honored to have been recognized for my achievements with the Global Perspectives Scholarship, which only strengthens my determination to excel in my pursuits,” says Hwang. “I hope to continue using my time and skills to give back to my community at large.”

Irene Penev
University of California San Diego

Irene Penev is an aspiring International Finance major who is seeking to enter the international affairs sector. She’s passionate about education, social justice, and public policy. Irene is actively involved in running a STEAM education class for underprivileged youth at her local community center.

“I’m so grateful and blessed to have received the 2023 Rustic Pathways Scholarship.,” says Penev. “It’s such an honor and will allow me to further enhance my education and learning. I want to thank the Rustic Pathways team for their dedication and for providing youth with the opportunity to be successful in the face of financial hardships.”

Elle Kalcik
Baylor University

Elle Kalcik is a sophomore at Baylor University in the Business Fellow program. She is majoring in Finance and Political Science, minoring in Math, and studying in the Baylor Interdisciplinary Core. Elle is a member of the Tridelta sorority, Club Tennis, serves as the Director of Leadership for Women in Business, and holds the position of student senator within the student government. Looking ahead, she aspires to attend law school upon graduation, with the goal of becoming either a criminal prosecutor or pursuing a career in corporate litigation.

“I am absolutely thrilled to receive this scholarship! Paying for college is a large financial stressor, and this scholarship will help to alleviate that,” says Kalcik.