[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 112 (Wednesday, September 20, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S8817]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               THE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC OPPORTUNITY ACT

  Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the 
International Academic Opportunity Act introduced by Senator's Lugar, 
Feingold, Collins and me. This bill provides $1.5 million in 
scholarships to low income college students to finance their study 
abroad. It is estimated that this program will help over 300 students 
in its first year. I believe that this legislation will provide needed 
resources to help low income students compete in today's global 
marketplace.
  In this era of globalization, it has become imperative for America's 
students to be prepared to operate in an international environment and 
economy. By studying abroad, students will be exposed to different 
languages and cultures that will help them become the successful 
leaders in the future.
  This scholarship, otherwise referred to as the Gilman Scholarship 
Act, because it was the developed by the Hon. Benjamin Gilman of New 
York, will provide up to $5000 per student for their study abroad. Mr. 
Gilman targeted these scholarships to low income students who otherwise 
would not have been able to consider a study abroad program. I believe 
that by increasing the number of students that will benefit from an 
international education we can only enhance the capacity of our 
citizens to participate in a global society.
  This legislation passed unanimously in the House and I hope that we 
will be able to pass it in the Senate before the end of session. I urge 
leadership and my fellow Senators to support a swift and unhindered 
passage.

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