Ha Ram, Lara Bersano, and
Gerson Semedo (BAICA School tutor)
The University of Central Arkansas Office of International Engagement awarded its first ever Distinguished International Student Scholarship to Ha Ram Kim, a student at Buenos Aires International Christian Academy in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Kim was chosen for this scholarship based on his outstanding academic achievement, as well as his excellent record in community service in acting as a tutor to students with learning disabilities. In addition to being class valedictorian, Kim is also the founder and president of his high school’s Community Service Club, where he organized and led donation drives for local orphanages and food banks.
“We are certain that Kim will be a beacon of leadership and commitment to UCA and his community and benefit from this amazing opportunity,” said UCA Latin American Specialist Lara Bersano, in a ceremony held for Kim at the United States Embassy in Buenos Aires last week.
In addition to Kim’s friends and family, U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Representative Linda Talluto; Buenos Aires International Christian Academy Coordinator Gerson Semedo; and Education USA Advisors Amy Molden and Sarah Sumadi were also in attendance at the ceremony, as well as Bersano, who works from Argentina.
“Although we in Arkansas could not present for the celebration, we are honored to have this young scholar representing Argentina at UCA,” said UCA Associate Vice President and Associate Provost Jane Ann Williams.
Kim plans to pursue a degree in the field of education but also hopes to continue his community service efforts while at UCA. “This scholarship is even more significant to my family and me as UCA is an open door when most of the doors have closed on me. I will not only try my best at upholding excellence, but will also strive to be the person who helps open new doors to others, both at UCA and abroad,” said Kim.
The Distinguished International Student Scholarship is a highly competitive scholarship with awards being determined based upon college proficiency exams, grade point average, essay submission, and letters of recommendation.
Distinguished International Student Scholars will receive an award equivalent to full tuition and fees and includes housing and meals for the fall and spring semesters up to four years. To read more about this scholarship as well as other scholarships available to international students at UCA, visit www.uca.edu/international/scholarship.