Leslie Peña '27 received the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to support an important internship opportunity in South Korea this Summer.
Why did you choose to apply for this award?
I applied for this award because, during the Fall 2025 semester, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea, where I had an unforgettable experience. When I returned, I felt that my time in Korea was not over yet, which motivated me to pursue a global internship. Applying for this scholarship will help me continue that journey! While many students study abroad, I have noticed that internships abroad are discussed less often. I wanted to take this additional step to gain hands-on experience and deepen my understanding of global work environments.
Briefly describe the work you will be doing on your fellowship.
During my fellowship, I will be working as a Data Analyst, Business Analyst, and GTM Strategist Intern. In this role, I will analyze business, product, and user data to identify market trends, growth opportunities, and potential risks. I will support pricing, revenue, and funnel analysis across B2C, B2B, and B2G models, as well as conduct research on markets, competitors, and customer behavior. I will also collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate data insights into actionable go-to-market strategies and support data-driven decision-making. This role will allow me to strengthen my analytical skills while also improving my communication and adaptability in a fast-paced, global work environment.
What are you most looking forward to during your time as a fellow?
I am most looking forward to immersing myself in a professional role in a country outside of the United States. I believe this experience will contribute to my growth not only as a researcher but also as a professional overall. I am especially excited to collaborate with new people, gain insight from different perspectives, and continue learning more about Korean culture while completing my internship. This opportunity will allow me to challenge myself in a new environment and further develop both my personal and professional skills.
How have your experiences at Oxy prepared you to apply for this award?
My experiences at Oxy have taught me the importance of persistence and problem-solving. Through my time here at Oxy, I have learned to look for alternative solutions when faced with challenges and to continue pushing forward even when things do not go as planned. These experiences have strengthened my ability to stay motivated and open-minded, which I believe has prepared me well for both the application process and the demands of this fellowship.
What advice would you give future applicants about the application process?
I would advice future applicants to remain resilient and optimistic as possible throughout the process. It is important to give your full effort and trust that your passion will come through in your writing and ideas. Personally, I doubted whether I would receive this scholarship, especially since I had just returned from studying abroad and was told it might be difficult. Despite those challenges, I continued to push forward and remained patient with the process. I also strongly recommend seeking support whether that means connecting with the fellowship team, visiting the Writing Center, or asking a professor for feedback. Having others review your work can provide valuable insight and make your application much stronger.