Eric Schuler – 2011/2012 recipient
Immersion educates you in a way that secondhand accounts never can. It is one thing to read about Denmark’s low carbon footprint and commitment to sustainability, but it is another to ride your bike in a city where cyclists have dedicated paths and vastly outnumber cars. It is yet another to take courses on making business sustainable, courses that are so unique that they aren’t even offered at Boise State. Similarly, you can’t understand what Americans label “socialism” until you realize that Copenhagen has essentially no poverty or crime, but then later converse with a Danish businessman about his grievances with entitlement programs. Immersion taught me the nuances that guidebooks and history books necessarily leave out. But however valuable that is, the true benefit for me went far beyond mere cultural understanding. I grew up just 15 minutes from Boise State, and studying in Denmark was the first time I had really been on my own. I was uncomfortable, but I adapted. I learned to read Danish ingredient labels so I could follow my vegan diet. I quickly made new friends from all over Europe. And I even learned how to suspend my impatient and high-strung American way of life. Studying abroad made me realize that I could live anywhere and do anything I wanted. It made me realize the value of experiencing other cultures, yet simultaneously heightened my appreciation for what I have here at Boise State. It is no exaggeration to say that studying in Denmark changed my life, and I have the Jordan family to thank for making it a reality.
George Fenton – 2010/2011 and 2011/2012 recipient
The Jordan Scholarship has had a remarkable impact on my education. In addition to providing greater camaraderie with students, faculty, and donors at Boise State, it has allowed me to experience life as a student and intern in Washington D.C. and London. In the summer of 2010, I used the Jordan Scholarship study at Georgetown University and intern at the Treasury Department. I received a wonderful introduction to Washington D.C. and furthered both my practical and academic knowledge of economics. In the summer of 2011, the Jordan family helped fund my stay at the London School of Economics. The instruction was excellent and the coursework was challenging. What was most valuable, though, was the opportunity to hear international perspectives on everything from economic policy to country music. These summer experiences have helped me find direction as a student and plans for a career. I encourage economics students to apply for the Jordan Scholarship knowing that it can open doors at Boise State and far beyond.
Steve Canty – 2011/2012 recipient
Receiving the Jordan Scholarship has been a tremendous honor. First of all, it was a validation of the value of hard work and commitment to academic excellence. It has allowed me to continue to afford to drive back and forth from Twin Falls to attend classes, which is no small burden considering the increase in gas prices. It has freed up other dedicated funds to make graduate school more affordable. I believe that investment in education is the cornerstone of economic growth and quality of life for a community, and the Jordan scholarship has shown me how that works first hand. My only hope is that I can get to a place someday where I can give back as the Jordans have.
Victoria Kazimir – 2011/2012 recipient
I am truly appreciative of the Jordan Scholarship for opportunities it has afforded. The scholarship has allowed me to more fully focus my energies on academics rather than financial concerns. It gave me the ability to broaden the scope of my financially feasible college experience. As a first-generation college student, it has also been invaluable in another sense as well. By way of receipt, I became better acquainted with our faculty, students, and members of the community. These relationships have enriched my learning and shaped my future plans by encouraging me to expand my horizons.