Kathleen Barnwell and Carlos Sanchez Julia are 2024 recipients of Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarships. Funded by the European Union, the EMJM scholarship allows students from across the
world to earn two master’s degrees in two years while studying in two or more European
countries.
Why it matters
The interdisciplinary programs provide opportunities for students to explore intersecting
interests. Additionally, students change host institutions at least once, but often
each semester, allowing for cultural immersion outside the classroom. Barnwell and
Sanchez Julia, both of whom previously earned the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for study abroad, will continue their international experiences at the master’s level
and address pressing environmental issues.
What it offers
The EMJM scholarship provides full tuition for two years, as well as a stipend for
living expenses. By the end of the program, participants have at least two master’s
degrees and a cross-cultural educational experience.
Who they are
Kathleen Barnwell graduated from USC in fall 2023 with a degree in geography. With funding from the
EMJM scholarship, she will earn a joint master’s degree in sustainable forest and
nature management. Her studies will take her to the University of Copenhagen and the
University of Padua, where she will focus on sustainable forest and land protection.
After completing her degree, she will continue pursuing her passion for environmental
stewardship through an international career in ecological restoration.
What she’s saying: “Many American students don’t know about the Erasmus Mundus scholarships, and they
provide wonderful opportunities at world-class universities.”
Carlos Sanchez Julia is a South Carolina Honors College student and 2022 Boren Scholar majoring in international
studies and economics. After graduating in spring 2024, his EMJM scholarship will
take him to the University of Copenhagen and the University of Warsaw. He will participate
in the MERGED Global Environment and Development program, which prepares students
for professions in sustainable development and natural resource management. In his
future career, Sanchez Julia will leverage this knowledge by working to create sustainable
international development policies.
What he’s saying: “I was partially inspired to apply to this program because of the research I did
for my Honors thesis (Magellan and Honors Research Grant funded) in which I spent
time in rural Ecuador with a conservation organization.”
National Fellowships and Scholar Programs provides support for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree scholarship applicants.
Students interested in learning more should contact USC’s national fellowships team.
