Claflin University freshman Frederick Uy has been named a Frederick Douglass Global Fellow, an honor awarding him a full scholarship to represent Claflin University in a study abroad program in London this summer. Uy is one of 10 students across the country to earn the prestigious Frederick Douglass Global Fellowship (FDGF).
Uy, who was born in the Philippines and later moved to Tacoma, Washington, is
pursuing a double major in Finance and Computer Science. After his undergraduate studies, Frederick hopes to enroll in a joint MBA and Law program then become a financial lawyer who helps smaller companies thrive. "It has always been a dream of mine to study abroad and be in a learning environment outside of the standard classroom," he said, noting that he looks forward to being forced to adapt outside his normal comfort zone.
"Studying abroad will push me to become a better person from networking and being engaged with different people and different cultures," Frederick said. "This opportunity is very important for my career because it will allow me to establish strong and solid connections and relationships with successful people in the business world."
Fellows are nominated by their college presidents and selected during a national competition. The winners have demonstrated high academic achievement, possess exemplary communication skills, display the hallmarks of self-determination, exhibit characteristics of bold leadership and have a history of service to others.
The Frederick Douglass Fellowship, which launched in 2017, is representative of efforts by CIEE and CMSI to increase diversity in study abroad by breaking down the barriers of cost, curriculum and culture that prevent students from participating in international education experiences. Named for the African-American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer and international statesman Frederick Douglass, the Fellowship encourages students to use his life as a model to becoming bold, globally conscious and service-oriented leaders.