Castleton student Emma Faucher Wins Coveted Study Abroad Scholarship

2014 Oct 28

Castleton junior Emma Faucher was overcome by excitement, thrill and emotion as she was announced the recent winner of a full semester tuition scholarship to study in New Zealand.

After submitting a creative, themed photo of herself paired with an essay entry to a Go Overseas study abroad contest, Faucher was selected out of over 1,000 applications for the $15,000 scholarship, including round trip airfare.

"I wanted to experience somewhere I have never experienced," said Faucher, explaining her decision to apply for the New Zealand education opportunity.

Members of the awarding organization, Go Overseas, flew to campus from California on Monday, along with a representative from New Zealand, to surprise Faucher with a oversized check and announce her official win.

Joined by family, friends, classmates, professors and Castleton President Dave Wolk, Faucher was filled with excitement after learning of her accomplishment.

"I can't believe I won out of that many people," she said, still surprised by the win and overwhelming support of the Castleton community.

Faucher will make the overseas journey in the spring of 2015, with plans to study psychology research at the Victoria University of Wellington.

"Emma is one of several wonderful examples of Castleton students who have been able to realize their dreams of studying abroad with the support of competitive, national scholarships," said Dean of Technology, Business and Physical Education, Yasmine Ziesler. "I hope this inspires other students to take risks."