AMES, Iowa — Two Iowa State University College of Design students have received the highly competitive Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship from the U.S. Department of State for 2024-2025. The scholarship is awarded to undergraduate Pell Grant recipients who plan to intern or study abroad.

College of Design recipients include fourth-year architecture student Andrea Muchori, from Ankeny, and community and regional planning sophomore Tyrique Ross, from Kansas City, Missouri. They are among six Iowa State students awarded Gilman Scholarships this year.

Andrea Muchori

Muchori is studying in Italy this semester with the College of Design’s Rome Program. The program offers a unique opportunity for students to learn about contemporary and historic architecture and design while living in Rome.

A first-generation college student, Muchori says she’s been looking forward to this immersive opportunity since high school.

“This is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience for me,” she said. “This semester abroad will undoubtedly prepare me for my career as an architect, and I love to travel. It’s exciting to get out and see this part of the world while also completing my studies.”

Tyrique Ross

Ross, who is minoring in Spanish, will participate in a six-week study abroad program in Valencia, Spain, through Iowa State this summer.

When he completes his degree, Ross hopes to focus on helping cities grow more sustainably and efficiently.

“Valencia is a complex city shaped by the cultural influences of its various rulers over the years,” he said. “Learning about Valencia’s development will support my goals as an international community regional planner focusing on community development and deepen my understanding of their language.”

Contacts

Andrea Muchori, Fourth-year Student, Architecture, amuchori@iastate.edu
Tyrique Ross, Sophomore, Community and Regional Planning tiross@iastate.edu
Genesis Reyes-Granados, Student Writing Assistant, College of Design, genreyes@iastate.edu
Lauren Johnson, Communications Specialist, College of Design, laujohn2@iastate.edu