Participating in a Freshman Seminar Abroad is a great opportunity for students to have an experience abroad early on in their time at the University and can inspire the "travel bug" in students. Thanks to the Fischer Scholarship, more students can afford to take advantage of this opportunity. Cathie Fischer and her late husband Jerry Fischer (former President and CEO of the University of Minnesota Foundation) established the scholarship to spread their love of international travel to a new generation of global citizens.

"Hearing the stories [of these students] underscores what transformation takes place when they have the opportunity to 'break down barriers!' I can't imagine a better way to support the inner growth of our younger population as they move into adulthood than to help students study abroad." — Cathie Fischer

After returning from their experiences abroad, Fischer Scholars had these memories:

Hannah Cowan, Microbiology Major
Galileo on Trial in Italy

“This experience brought my freshman seminar class and the history to life, transporting me back to [Galileo’s] time.”

Autumn Moder, Speech-Language-Hearing Science Major
Innovation & Imagination in Ireland

“[Before this trip] I didn’t realize how many walls I had built up… Once I realized what barriers I had, I was able to break out of my mental shell and apply everything I have learned to everything I was currently learning. Each experience I had was both educational and exhilarating… This trip allowed me to continue to break out of my shell and learn and appreciate the things around me, even after I came back.”

Watch Autumn's digital story >> 

Thomas Mathew, Architecture Major
Design in Istanbul 

"Istanbul is a truly special place. The sights, sounds, scents, textures, and tastes are unlike anything I’ve experienced prior to this opportunity. I had the chance to practice simple civilian diplomacy, and met some of the most kind hearted people I’ve ever encountered." 

Alyssa DeHut, Pre-Biomedical Engineering Major
Coral Reef Management in Belize

“It may sound silly, but I feel as if I got to know the ocean so much. We spent so much time in the water. We visited multiple coral reef sites around the Belize barrier reef. I was able to recognize all of the fish and all of the coral. I swam feet away from stingrays and eels…” 

Cassi Miesner, Art Education
Impressionism in Paris and Southern France

"This trip was not just a fun spring break getaway. I believe I will take this experience and use it for the rest of my life.

Traveling to see different cultures around the world is something that an art educator values in their life, and I am so excited to apply these experiences to my future classroom."