Magellan Information Sessions Benefit Students

Vaishnavi Peyyety, Current Events Staff Writer

Students walk and talk between New Residence and Bica-Ross Halls during the Creosote Affects photo shoot May (Photo Courtesy W&J College).

NOV. 20 - Throughout the month of November, Rachel Stalker, the assistant director of the Center for Professional Pathways, hosted various information sessions to learn more about the Magellan Project and the Magellan Franklin Awards. Through these five sessions, Stalker covered topics such as: what is the Magellan Project, the timeline of how and when to apply for the award, and where to seek further information. The Magellan Project allows students to pursue their passions in a creative and original way. The Magellan Franklin award has a similar application process but is specific to internships.

"The Magellan Project allows students to pursue their passions in a creative and original way. The Magellan Franklin award has a similar application process but is specific to internships."

Faculty advisors from different departments provide coaching, support, and guidance throughout the application process in order to turn students’ project ideas into reality. Students are encouraged to write a proposal, which details their plans for their experience, and a budget for necessary expenses. If students are approved and funded, they have the freedom to explore their topic(s) of interest without having to worry about financial constraints. Many students have completed Magellan Projects in the past. Project topics span from Jessica Shieh’s study titled “Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder: Cosmetic Surgery in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan” toNaveenMansi’s exploration of “The Transculturation of Colonial & Incan Architecture and its Relationship to Indigenous Racism in Peru.” Using this award, students have traveled to many different countries including South Africa, Italy, and Spain in addition to states across the U.S. By exploring the diversity of other students' Magellan Projects, you may be inspired to discover something new too!