This spring, the Jackson School connected with the recipients of our academic scholarships; through these conversations, we discovered their academic passions and learned how these scholarships will play a crucial role in helping them achieve their goals and drive innovation in international studies.
Jaya Field
Name: Jaya Field
Degree: B.A. in International Studies and Law, Societies & Justice
Expected to graduate in: Winter 2026
Hometown: Evanston, Illinois
What was your reaction to receiving the Neal and Helen Fosseen Endowed Scholarship in International Studies?
I was surprised and honored to have received the Neal and Helen Fosseen Endowed Scholarship in International Studies. It is often difficult as an out-of-state student to find scholarships I am eligible for, so it meant a lot to receive this award.
How will this award help your goals and career path?
I am excited to use this award towards the Jackson School study abroad program in Rome this spring quarter. Within the international studies major, my regional concentration is Europe, so doing my Task Force [“A City for All?” Action-based Evaluation of Access and Inclusion in Rome with Associate Professor Stephen Meyers] in Rome is well-suited for my academic and personal goals.
What key skills have you learned at the Jackson School that you’ll apply to your career?
Through the Jackson School, I have worked as a research assistant under Dr. Sabine Lang, and gained indispensable research, analysis, and writing skills as a result. As I also prepare to study abroad with Jackson School for the second time, I am grateful to have done fieldwork and policy work in multiple countries. The exposure I have gained from these experiences are essential for my future career.
What advice would you give to students considering applying for academic Jackson School scholarships?
I would encourage every Jackson School student to apply during the scholarship cycle! Something that I found useful to do as I worked on my essay was to think about and highlight the different ways I have engaged with the department in and out of class. It is important to note ways you have contributed to Jackson School, but also ways you have benefited from said involvement.
