Belmont’s Interdisciplinary Studies and Global Education hosted British Consul General Jeremy Pilmore-Bedford and distinguished members of his staff to speak at a statewide reception and information session for prospective Marshall Scholarship candidates in Massey Boardroom on Monday evening.
The Marshall Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships in the world and provides funding for graduate study in the United Kingdom. Students from any discipline are eligible to apply, but they must have a minimum GPA of 3.7. As future leaders, with a lasting understanding of British society, Marshall Scholars strengthen the enduring relationship between the British and American people, their governments and their institutions. Their direct engagement with Britain through its best academic programs contributes to their ultimate personal success.
Dr. Mimi Barnard, assistant provost of interdisciplinary studies and global education, said, “In appointing scholars the selectors will look for candidates who have the potential to excel as scholars, as leaders and as contributors to improved U.K.-U.S. understanding. Assessment will be based on academic merit, leadership potential and ambassadorial potential. Our office was delighted to host the British Consul General Jeremy Pilmore-Bedford and his staff for the reception as well as several college and university representatives from across Tennessee.”
At Monday’s event, Consul General Jeremy Pilmore-Bedford welcomed the students and Dr. Mary Edgerton spoke more in depth regarding the Marshall Scholarship process. She is also on the reviewing committee and was able to provide students with an inside perspective and examples of successful candidate applications and interviews.
Up to 40 Scholars are selected each year to study at the graduate level at any U.K. institution in any field of study. Each college or university was invited to bring up to five outstanding freshmen, sophomores or juniors and up to two institutional representatives to learn more about the Marshall Scholarship and graduate study in the U.K. Participating universities included Belmont, Middle Tennessee State University, Tennessee State University, Tennessee Tech University, Union University and Vanderbilt University.
